Print

Glazed Lemon Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Delight in these Glazed Lemon Cookies featuring a tender, buttery base infused with fresh lemon zest, topped with a tangy lemon glaze for the perfect balance of sweet and citrus. Easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion, these cookies offer a refreshing twist on classic sugar cookies.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • 2 ¼ cups (286 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 sticks (227 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 3 medium lemons)
  • 1 large egg, at cool room temperature

Lemon Glaze

  • 1 ½ cups (189 grams) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Additional lemon zest, to garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
  3. Cream Butter, Sugar, and Lemon Zest: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest together until light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. Scrape down the bowl to incorporate all ingredients.
  4. Add Egg: Beat in one large egg until fully combined, about 1 minute. Scrape down the bowl again to ensure a uniform mixture.
  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: On low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. The dough will feel slightly dry at this stage.
  6. Shape Cookies: Using a medium spring-loaded cookie scoop, portion 1 ½ tablespoons of dough per cookie onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Roll each dough ball between your palms, then flatten gently with your palm to approximately 1/3-inch thickness.
  7. Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 12 to 14 minutes, or until they are just set and the edges turn slightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
  8. Prepare Lemon Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk the sifted powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice together, adding lemon juice one tablespoon at a time until you reach a very thick yet pourable consistency suitable for glazing.
  9. Glaze and Garnish: Spoon the lemon glaze over the cooled cookies evenly. If desired, sprinkle additional lemon zest on top for extra flavor and decoration. Allow the glaze to set for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before serving.
  10. Storage: Store the glazed lemon cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter and egg to ensure smooth dough and even mixing.
  • Lemon zest from fresh lemons provides the best flavor; avoid using dried zest.
  • Adjust the lemon juice in the glaze to achieve your preferred consistency and tartness.
  • Cookies can be frozen before glazing for longer storage; thaw completely before glazing.
  • For a stronger lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the dough or glaze.