If you’re a fan of soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a refreshing burst of lemon, these Cream Cheese Lemon Cookies are just the treat for you! Made with a combination of cream cheese and lemon zest, these cookies are ultra-soft with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The addition of lemon icing adds a delightful citrus kick, making these cookies irresistibly delicious. They’re ideal for springtime gatherings, holiday platters, or whenever you crave a sweet lemony treat. Here’s how to make these delightful cookies from scratch.
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp lemon zest
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 1/2 to 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (add more if dough is too soft)
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Lemon Icing:
- 1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (or water)
- Any extra lemon zest from the cookies
- 3/4 to 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- If the dough is very soft, add an additional 1/4 cup of flour.
- Chill the Dough:
- Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Refrigerating the dough ensures the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a baking tray by placing a sheet of parchment paper on it for easy cleanup.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop out about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing each ball about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
- Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft.
- Take the item out of the oven and allow it to rest on the baking tray for 5 minutes. Afterward, move it to a wire rack to cool fully.
- Make the Lemon Icing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice (or water) and powdered sugar until smooth and pourable.
- Incorporate additional powdered sugar if you desire a richer, thicker frosting.
- Ice the Cookies:
- Drizzle or spread the lemon icing over the cooled cookies.
- Garnish with leftover lemon zest to enhance the flavor and add a vibrant touch.
Conclusion:
These Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies are a perfect balance of creamy indulgence and vibrant citrus flavor. The smooth cream cheese adds richness, while the fresh lemon infuses each bite with a zesty, refreshing twist. With their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are an irresistible treat for anyone who loves a tangy lemon kick. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or savoring on your own, they’re a delightful companion to a warm cup of tea or coffee. Treat yourself to this citrusy delight and elevate your dessert experience!