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Soft & Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies

Three Soft & Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies dusted heavily with powdered sugar on a white plate.

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Follow this recipe to bake thick, soft, and chewy lemon sugar cookies with a bright, zesty flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until just combined.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough into 1-inch balls. Place the powdered sugar in a shallow dish. Roll each dough ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated.
  6. Place the coated dough balls 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
  7. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the centers should still look slightly soft.
  8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling in sugar.
  • Do not overbake; slightly underbaking ensures a soft center.
  • If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon extract along with the juice.

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