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Easy Lemon Sugar Cookies Recipe – Soft, Chewy Homemade Citrus Cookies

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Soft and chewy lemon sugar cookies with a bright citrus flavor. These easy one-bowl, no-chill cookies are quick to make and deliver a perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 18 cookies

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 23 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar (for coating, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Mix in egg yolk, vanilla, and lemon zest until combined.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
  6. Roll dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and optionally coat in sugar.
  7. Place cookies 2 inches apart on baking sheet.
  8. Bake 9–11 minutes until edges are set.
  9. Cool before serving.

Notes

  • Measure flour correctly for best results (spoon and level method recommended).
  • Do not overbake—cookies may look slightly underdone when ready.
  • Use fresh baking powder and baking soda for proper rise.
  • Chilling dough is optional but helps control spread.
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 11 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian