Lemon Sugar Cookies: A Delightful Treat for All Occasions

Introduction

Baking has always been a cherished pastime in my family, often bringing us together for both sweet indulgence and heartfelt conversation. Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe for Lemon Sugar Cookies that piqued my interest with its zesty flavor and simple preparation. After giving it a whirl, I was pleasantly surprised by how much everyone enjoyed them! The refreshing lemon flavor combined with a light, tender texture made these cookies a hit. My family devoured them in no time, and I knew I had to share this delightful recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 60g (½ cup) sugar
• 50 ml (3 tbsp.) lemon juice
• 30 ml (2 tbsp.) vegetable oil
• ½ lemon (zest)
• 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
• 210g (1 ⅔ cup) all-purpose flour
• 50g (¼ cup) cornstarch
• 120 ml (½ cup) milk
• Sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon zest, vegetable oil, and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.
3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined.
4. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
5. Shape the Cookies: After chilling, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cut the chilled dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake: Bake the cookies for about 15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden.
7. Add the Finishing Touch: Once cooled, dip each cookie in milk and sprinkle with sugar for that extra sweet touch.
8. Enjoy: Serve them fresh or store them for later!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 20 cookies
• Calories per serving: 120 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour (30 minutes chilling + 15 minutes baking + prep time)

How to Serve

• Serve Fresh: Enjoy the cookies straight from the oven for a warm treat.
• With Tea or Coffee: Pair these cookies with your favorite hot beverage.
• As a Snack: They make a delightful afternoon snack for kids and adults alike.
• At Parties: Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or potlucks.
• With Ice Cream: Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream for an elevated dessert experience.

Additional Tips

1. Zest Carefully: Use a microplane for finely grating the lemon zest to avoid any bitter white pith.
2. Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for better mixing.
3. Don’t Skip the Chill: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right texture and shape.
4. Experiment with Flavor: Try adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors.
5. Adjust Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar to 50g.

Recipe Variations

• Lemon Blueberry Cookies: Add fresh or dried blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Mix in poppy seeds for an interesting texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Iced Cookies: After baking, ice the cookies with a lemon glaze for an extra citrus kick.
• Herbal Infusion: Incorporate a hint of fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a sophisticated flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Dessert Platters: Include these cookies on dessert platters with a variety of treats.
• Gift Packages: Package them nicely in a box or jar as a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Brunch Spread: Add them to your brunch menu alongside scones and pastries.
• With Fruit: Serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• At the Office: Bring them to work for a sweet treat during break time.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Shape the balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a ziplock bag.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Keep the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

• Yes, but fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavor.

1. What can I substitute for cornstarch?

• You can use arrowroot powder or additional flour.

1. Why do I need to chill the dough?

• Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and keeps the cookies tender.

1. Can I make these cookies vegan?

• Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based milk and oil.

1. What if my cookies spread too much?

• Ensure your dough is chilled, and check your oven temperature.

1. Can I add nuts?

• Yes, chopped walnuts or almonds can add a delightful crunch.

1. How do I know when the cookies are done?

• They should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough baking sheets and space in your oven.

1. Do these cookies get hard after a day?

• They may become firmer; storing them with a slice of bread can help maintain softness.

1. Can I frost these cookies?
   • Yes, a simple lemon icing would complement the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Lemon Sugar Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a delightful way to brighten up any gathering or quiet afternoon at home. With their easy preparation, refreshing lemony taste, and the option for various adaptations, this recipe is a must-try for both novice and seasoned bakers. Whether you’re enjoying them with family, serving at a gathering, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. So, grab your ingredients and start baking; you won’t regret it!

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