Description
Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful combination of soft, chewy texture and vibrant citrus flavor. Each cookie is coated in powdered sugar, creating a beautiful crinkled effect as it bakes. These cookies are perfect for brightening any day and are ideal for spring gatherings, afternoon treats, or holiday cookie swaps.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
For Coating:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground turmeric (if using), and kosher salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Infuse the Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup granulated sugar and lemon zest.
- Rub the sugar and zest together with your fingers to release the lemon oils, enhancing the citrus flavor.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- Add the softened butter to the lemon sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed using a stand mixer or hand mixer until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Mix in the egg, egg yolk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on medium-low speed. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Coating
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place powdered sugar in one bowl and the remaining ¼ cup granulated sugar in another bowl.
Step 6: Roll and Coat the Dough
- Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball.
- Roll each ball first in granulated sugar, then generously in powdered sugar, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes, or until the tops are crackly and the edges are set.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Fresh Lemons: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Generous Coating: Rolling in both sugars ensures the signature crinkle effect.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American