Lemon Crinkle Cookies

There’s nothing quite like the joy of baking a batch of Lemon Crinkle Cookies on a sunny afternoon. I still remember the first time I made these delightful treats in my kitchen. It was spring, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. The sun beamed through the window, casting a warm glow as I whisked together the ingredients. As the vibrant lemon zest danced into the mix, I could already envision the bright, crunchy tops and the chewy, soft centers. These cookies are more than just a dessert; they carry memories of laughter-filled gatherings and warm conversations.

Every bite of a Lemon Crinkle Cookie is like a burst of sunshine. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying over a cup of tea. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies bring a touch of joy to any moment. With their beautiful crinkled tops coated in powdered sugar, they look as delightful as they taste. I love how they blend the zesty flavor of fresh lemons with the sweetness of sugar, creating a perfect balance that’s impossible to resist. You’ll find yourself reaching for just one more!

So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic together. This recipe will soon become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why these cookies are so beloved.

Key Ingredients for Lemon Crinkle Cookies

The ingredients for Lemon Crinkle Cookies combine to create a symphony of flavor and texture that is simply irresistible. Each component plays a vital role, ensuring that every cookie is bursting with lemony goodness and sweetness. The all-purpose flour provides the structural base, while the white sugar and powdered sugar contribute to the sweetness and the crinkly finish. The fresh lemon zest is the star of the show, delivering that signature citrus flavor, while the butter and neutral oil add richness and moisture. These ingredients come together to create cookies that are not only delicious but also a joy to bake.

• All-purpose flour: 1 3/4 cups (210g) – The foundation of the cookies, providing structure and texture.
• Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon – Helps the cookies rise and achieve a fluffy texture.
• Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon – Works with the baking powder for leavening, ensuring they don’t turn out flat.
• Kosher salt: 1/4 teaspoon – Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• White sugar: 3/4 cup – Adds sweetness and helps in achieving the cookie’s crisp exterior.
• Zest from three lemons: Provides a burst of fresh lemon flavor that’s essential for this recipe.
• Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup, at room temperature – Adds richness and a delicious buttery flavor.
• Neutral oil: 1/4 cup – Keeps the cookies moist and chewy.
• Large eggs: 2 – Acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the cookie dough together.
• Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – Adds depth of flavor, complementing the lemon.
• Yellow food coloring gel: 2 drops – Optional, to enhance the color for a more vibrant cookie.
• Powdered sugar: 3/4 cup, sifted – Used for rolling the cookies before baking, giving them their signature crinkly appearance.

Step by Step Guide for Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Baking Lemon Crinkle Cookies is a simple yet rewarding process that fills your home with the most delightful aroma. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be enjoying these delicious cookies in no time. Let’s dive in!

1. Start by preparing your workspace and gathering all your ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Make sure everything is well combined, then set the bowl aside. This dry mix is the foundation of your cookies and helps create the right texture.

2. Next, grab the bowl of your stand mixer or a large mixing bowl if you’re using a hand mixer. Combine the white sugar, lemon zest, unsalted butter, neutral oil, and pure vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture is very smooth and fluffy, about one minute. The color should become lighter, and it should have a light, airy texture.

3. Now, it’s time to add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures that they’re fully incorporated, adding moisture and binding the mixture together. After adding the eggs, mix in the yellow food coloring gel if you’re using it; it should blend in seamlessly, giving the batter a cheerful hue.

4. Slowly pour in the dry ingredients from the first bowl into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined—be careful not to overmix. You should see no flour flecks; the dough should come together beautifully. It might be a bit sticky, but that’s perfectly fine.

5. Once the dough is prepared, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to scoop and manage.

6. While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, ensuring your cookies won’t stick.

7. After chilling, use a medium cookie scoop to portion out balls of dough. Roll each ball in the sifted powdered sugar, ensuring they’re generously coated. This step gives the cookies their lovely crinkled look and sweet finish.

8. Place six cookie dough balls on each baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between them for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 13 minutes. The cookies should puff slightly and the centers should be set, but they will fall as they cool.

9. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps set their structure. You’ll notice they’ll develop a beautiful crackled top as they cool.

10. Repeat the rolling and baking process with the remaining dough balls. Enjoy your freshly baked Lemon Crinkle Cookies with a cup of tea or share them with friends!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are many ways to make Lemon Crinkle Cookies your own! Here are some ideas to consider:

• Storage: These cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them soft and chewy.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Shape the balls, coat them in powdered sugar, and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, take them out and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Variations: Try adding different citrus zests such as orange or lime for a unique twist on flavor.
• Add-ins: Consider folding in some chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Coloring: Experiment with different food coloring to match seasonal themes or festivities!
• Glaze: For an extra indulgence, drizzle a lemon glaze over the cooled cookies for a sweet, tangy finish.

What to Serve Alongside Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Pairing your Lemon Crinkle Cookies with the right accompaniments can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delicious suggestions:

• Tea: Enjoy these cookies with a refreshing cup of herbal or green tea. The citrus notes in the cookies complement the flavors beautifully.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, and citrus fruits makes for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet for a delightful treat, perfect for warm weather.
• Cheese Platter: A cheese platter with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can balance the sweetness of the cookies wonderfully.
• Picnics: Bring these cookies along for outdoor picnics or gatherings. They’re portable and sure to impress your friends!
• Seasonal Gatherings: These cookies are perfect for spring festivities, birthday parties, or even as a sweet treat during holidays.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that combines bright flavors with a fun texture, making them a favorite among cookie lovers. Their unique crinkled tops and zesty taste not only please the palate but also brighten up any occasion. I encourage you to try making these cookies at home; they’re sure to bring a smile to your face and joy to your loved ones. Happy baking!

Lemon Crinkle Cookies

The ultimate treat for lemon lovers! Lemon Crinkle Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh flavor. With their signature crackled tops and sweet lemony taste, these cookies are a delightful addition to any occasion. Perfect for sharing or enjoying alone, make them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 24 servings

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

• Oven
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1.75 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.5 teaspoon Baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Baking soda
• 0.25 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 0.75 cup White sugar
• Zest from three Lemons
• 0.25 cup Unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 0.25 cup Neutral oil
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
• 2 drops Yellow food coloring gel
• 0.75 cup Powdered sugar, sifted

Instructions

 

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Set aside.
• In the bowl of a stand-up mixer (or with an electric hand mixer), combine the white sugar, lemon zest, unsalted butter, neutral oil, and pure vanilla extract. Beat until very smooth and fluffy, about one minute. Add in 2-3 drops of yellow food coloring gel and mix again.
• Add the large eggs and beat once more. Pour in the dry ingredients and combine until no flour flecks are visible. Chill the dough for 30 minutes to firm up.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop out balls of cookie dough and roll them in the sifted powdered sugar. Be sure to really cake it on.
• Place 6 cookies per baking sheet and bake for 12-13 minutes, until the centers are set. They’ll puff up a bit but fall as they cool.
• Repeat with the coating and baking with the remaining batter.

Notes

• Tip 1: If the dough is too soft, you can always stick it in the fridge for an additional 30 minutes.
• Tip 2: Store them in an airtight container for up to three days.

Keyword Easy Cookie Recipe, lemon cookies recipe, Lemon Crinkle Cookies, Spring Desserts

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.