Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe

The Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe is a nostalgic treat that takes me back to my childhood. I remember eagerly waiting for those little green boxes to arrive, the excitement building as I anticipated those sweet, tangy lemon cookies. Recreating this recipe at home was driven by a craving that just wouldn’t go away. It’s amazing how a cookie can evoke such strong memories, isn’t it? With each bite of the soft, buttery cookies, I can almost hear the laughter and chatter from my friends while we enjoyed those little indulgences together. Baking these cookies not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also allows me to share those cherished memories with family and friends. They might not be from the Girl Scouts, but I promise they taste just as good, if not better!

Everything You Need for Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe

When it comes to baking the perfect cookies, choosing the right ingredients is essential. The Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe features simple yet flavorful components that harmoniously blend together. Each ingredient plays a critical role in creating those light and zesty treats. From the rich butter to the tangy lemon juice, they all work together to deliver an unforgettable experience.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the backbone of the cookie, providing structure and texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and creates a tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their delightful texture.
• 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 1 egg yolk: For an extra richness that helps achieve the perfect texture.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Infuses the cookies with a vibrant lemon flavor.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for a bright, tangy twist.
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract: Intensifies the lemon flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and complements the citrus notes.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet glaze that makes these cookies irresistible.
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice: Used in the glaze for that perfect finish.

Directions for Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe

Getting started with these cookies is a delightful experience. The aroma of fresh lemons and warm butter will fill your kitchen as you bake. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies ready to enjoy in no time!

1. In a medium bowl, mix flour and salt. Set aside. This initial step is crucial for ensuring an even distribution of salt throughout the dough.
2. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. The mixture should turn pale and creamy.
3. Add the egg, egg yolk, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon extract, vanilla extract, and a few drops of food coloring, if using. Mix well until everything is combined and creamy. You’ll notice the color changing slightly as you mix in the liquids.
4. Gradually beat in the flour mixture on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to come together without becoming tough. It should be soft and slightly sticky.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 9 inches long and 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in wax paper and refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm. Chilling is essential for slicing the cookies easily.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The oven should be ready when you start slicing the logs.
7. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them on ungreased baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are spaced apart as they will spread slightly while baking.
8. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until very lightly browned on the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking; you want them to remain soft.
9. Cool on the baking sheets for 1 minute, then transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
10. In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar until you reach your desired glaze texture.
11. Dip the bottom (or top, if desired) of each cookie into the glaze, then gently set the cookies with the glaze side up on a wire rack to allow the glaze to set. If you want to be fancy, sprinkle some additional lemon zest on top while the glaze is still wet.

Tips and Variations

While the Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe is delightful on its own, here are some tips and variations to enhance your baking experience.

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their freshness and flavor.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked dough logs for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Pairing: Serve these cookies with a cup of tea or lemonade for a refreshing treat.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to substitute the lemon with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a different twist on the classic flavor.
• Add-Ins: Consider adding poppy seeds for a bit of crunch or using almond extract alongside the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe

These cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve and enjoy them:

• Tea Time: Serve your cookies with a hot cup of tea or iced tea for a refreshing pairing.
• Picnics: These cookies make a delightful addition to any picnic basket, offering a sweet treat under the sun.
• Coffee Break: Pair your cookies with a cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
• Brunch: Include them in a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and pastries.
• Gift Giving: Package them beautifully in a box to share with friends or family during holidays or special occasions.
• Seasonal Dishes: These cookies are perfect for spring gatherings and celebrations due to their light and fresh flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe captures the essence of spring and nostalgia in every bite. With its perfect blend of sweetness and tang, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try making them yourself and relive those cherished memories. Share them with friends and family, and watch as they smile with each delicious bite.

Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe

The ultimate comfort food, the Girl Scout Lemon Cookies Copycat Recipe offers a delightful blend of sweetness and tang. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a fresh lemon glaze, these cookies are a must-bake for any occasion. Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of spring and make them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 22 cookies

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg room temperature
• 1 large egg yolk room temperature
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest finely grated
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh squeezed
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

 

• In a medium bowl, mix flour and salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
• Add the egg, egg yolk, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon extract, vanilla extract, and a few drops of food coloring, if using. Mix well until combined.
• Gradually beat in the flour mixture on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to come together without becoming tough.
• Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 9 inches long and 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in wax paper and refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and arrange them on ungreased baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until very lightly browned on the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking; you want them to remain soft.
• Cool on the baking sheets for 1 minute, then transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
• In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.
• Dip the bottom (or top, if desired) of each cookie into the glaze, then gently set the cookies with the glaze side up on a wire rack to allow the glaze to set.

Notes

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked dough logs for up to 2 months.
• Pairing: Serve these cookies with a cup of tea or lemonade.
• Flavor Variations: Substitute the lemon with lime or orange for a different twist on the classic flavor.
• Add-Ins: Consider adding poppy seeds for a bit of crunch.

Keyword copycat recipe, easy lemon cookies, Girl Scout cookies, lemon cookies

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.