Spring Lemon Sugar Cookies

Name: Spring Lemon Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Cakes & Cravings

I love baking these Spring Lemon Sugar Cookies as the weather starts to warm up. The zesty flavor of fresh lemons combined with the sweetness of sugar creates a delightful treat that brightens any gathering. Each bite is wonderfully soft and chewy, making them a favorite among family and friends. I enjoy decorating them with a simple citrus glaze, which adds an extra touch of brightness. Whether it’s for an afternoon snack or a spring celebration, these cookies never fail to bring smiles!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:49:36.641Z

When I first made these cookies, I was surprised by how simple yet delicious they turned out. Using fresh lemon juice and zest truly elevates the flavor and gives them a lovely springtime vibe. I found that letting the dough chill for a bit before baking helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their texture, resulting in the perfect chewy bite.

To make these cookies even more special, I like to sprinkle a bit of extra lemon zest on top of the glaze. It’s a little detail that makes a big difference, adding a burst of citrus aroma right when you bite into them. They are perfect for sharing at potlucks or enjoying with a cup of tea!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Zesty lemon flavor that refreshes with every bite
Perfectly soft and chewy texture
A delightful treat for spring gatherings

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh lemons is crucial for achieving the vibrant flavor in these Spring Lemon Sugar Cookies. The zest contains essential oils that add aromatic depth, while the juice provides acidity that balances the sweetness of the sugar. If lemons aren't available, consider using high-quality bottled lemon juice, although the flavor may not be as bright. Remember to wash your lemons thoroughly before zesting to remove any wax or chemicals for the best taste.

Butter plays a significant role in achieving the soft and chewy texture of these cookies. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar, which helps incorporate air and results in a light cookie. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, but be aware this may alter the texture slightly.

Chilling the Dough

Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes is a non-negotiable step that influences the final result. It allows the gluten to relax and firms up the fat, which minimizes spreading during baking. This ensures you get those delightful puffy edges without sacrificing softness. If you are short on time, try chilling for just 15 minutes while your oven preheats, but the longer chill is always preferable for best results.

If you want to make the cookie dough ahead of time, it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Just allow it to come to room temperature before scooping and baking. This flexibility makes these cookies a great option for when you have a last-minute gathering.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape while baking.

Bake the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies before serving.

Pro Tips

To get the best flavor, always use fresh lemons for both juice and zest. Also, allow the cookies to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.

Decorating and Serving Suggestions

The glaze adds an exciting zing and visually appealing touch to your cookies, but you can personalize it further. Consider using food coloring to tint the glaze a cheerful yellow, or sprinkle colored sugar over the drizzle for added texture. You can also experiment with different citrus glazes or incorporate vanilla extract for a subtle twist that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.

These cookies pair wonderfully with herbal teas or lemonade, making them ideal for an afternoon tea party or spring picnic. Feel free to serve them with fresh berries on the side for a contrasting flavor that enhances the citrus profile. For an alternative serving idea, layer them in a jar for a vibrant cookie gift with a personal touch.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your cookies come out too flat, this could be a sign that the butter is too warm or that the dough wasn't chilled sufficiently. Always measure your ingredients accurately; using packed flour can yield too much dry ingredient, impacting the final texture. Another common issue is overbaking, which turns soft cookies into a crunchy disappointment. Keep an eye on the edges, and remove them from the oven when they're just lightly golden.

Conversely, if the cookies are too thick, make sure to roll the dough into even-sized balls to promote uniform baking. You can also flatten the dough slightly with the palm of your hand before placing it in the oven to help control the height. Adjusting baking times based on your oven’s calibration may also help achieve that perfect soft, chewy center.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled juice in a pinch.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I add to these cookies?

You can add poppy seeds, white chocolate chips, or even dried cranberries for an interesting twist.