Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are bursting with citrus flavor and have a delightful chewy texture that makes them irresistible.

Callie Morgan

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:18:42.713Z

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your day. Perfect for any occasion, they are a favorite among family and friends!

Why You'll Love These Cookies

  • Bright, zesty flavor that awakens your taste buds
  • Soft, chewy texture that is simply addictive
  • Easy to make, perfect for bakers of all levels

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies strike the perfect harmony between sweetness and tartness. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest provides a refreshing zing that brightens each bite. This unique flavor profile makes them an ideal treat for any occasion, whether it's a sunny afternoon or a cozy gathering with friends. The bright citrus notes will awaken your taste buds and leave you craving more.

The use of granulated sugar complements the tartness of the lemon, creating a delightful sweetness that balances the overall flavor. Each cookie is a burst of sunshine, evoking memories of warm days and cheerful moments. These cookies not only taste fantastic, but they also look appealing with their dusting of powdered sugar, making them a perfect addition to any dessert platter.

A Texture That Delights

One of the standout features of these cookies is their incredibly soft and chewy texture. Achieving the right consistency is key, and this recipe does just that. The combination of butter and sugar whipped to a light, fluffy state ensures that the cookies turn out tender while still maintaining a chewy bite. This texture makes them perfect for dunking in your favorite beverage, whether it be tea, coffee, or a tall glass of milk.

Each cookie has a delightful slightly crisp edge, contrasting beautifully with the soft center. This dual texture keeps each bite interesting and satisfying. You won't be able to resist sneaking one (or two!) before they even cool down. Plus, they stay fresh and chewy for days, making them a great make-ahead option for busy weeks or special events.

Baking Made Easy

Baking these Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies is a breeze, making them accessible for bakers of all levels. The step-by-step instructions are straightforward, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve delicious results. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for when cravings strike unexpectedly.

Additionally, this recipe allows for customization. Feel free to experiment with add-ins like white chocolate chips or poppy seeds for a unique twist. You can also adjust the amount of lemon zest and juice to suit your taste preferences. This versatility not only keeps things exciting but also allows you to make these cookies your own.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Flavors

Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Dust

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies!

Storage Tips

To keep your Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their chewy texture and delightful flavor. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be enjoyed for up to three months straight from the freezer.

When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their soft, chewy goodness. This way, you can have a batch of fresh-tasting cookies on hand whenever you need a sweet treat!

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are versatile and can be served in various ways. For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust them with powdered sugar and arrange them on a beautiful platter. Pair them with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea for a delightful afternoon tea experience. They also make a fantastic dessert option for gatherings, and their bright flavor will surely impress your guests.

For a fun twist, consider making a lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice and drizzling it over the cooled cookies. This adds an extra layer of lemony goodness that cookie lovers will adore. Whether enjoyed alone or as part of a dessert spread, these cookies are bound to be a hit!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Yes, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when you're ready.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free option.

Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies

These Soft & Chewy Lemon Cookies are bursting with citrus flavor and have a delightful chewy texture that makes them irresistible.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Callie Morgan

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

For the Cookies

  1. 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 tsp baking powder
  3. 1/2 tsp baking soda
  4. 1/4 tsp salt
  5. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  6. 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  7. 1 large egg
  8. 1 tbsp lemon zest
  9. 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  10. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  11. 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 03

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 04

Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 05

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 06

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 07

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 1g