No one likes an empty cookie jar. And everyone loves a sugar cookie. So keep your countertop container full and the smiles coming with this easy recipe. Like the classic version, these sweet treats showcase soft, buttery flavor with a light sprinkling of sugar on top. But a splash of lemon juice and fresh lemon zest add an unexpected twist that will tickle your taste buds. Serve them stacked as an after-school snack or add sprinkles, frosting or food coloring to dress them up for a special occasion.
Lemon-Zested Sugar Cookies
Makes 24 cookies
Ingredients
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
¼ cup sparkling sugar
½ tsp. baking soda
½ tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. salt
1 egg
Zest of one lemon
¾ cup butter, softened
1 tsp. vanilla extract
2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt in a small bowl and set aside.
- Mix together butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice and lemon zest. Mix in the dry ingredients.
- Cut out cookies and dip the tops in sparkling sugar.
- Place cookies on lined baking sheets, keeping them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden.
- Allow to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before moving a cooling rack.