Busy moms often juggle a million tasks, and finding time to bake can feel impossible. But here’s a treat that’s not only quick to make but also brings smiles to everyone around the table. Lemon Crinkle Cookies are bright, zesty, and oh-so-easy. You can whip them up in no time, making them perfect for busy afternoons or school events.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Lemon Crinkle Cookies recipe shines because it combines minimal prep with maximum flavor. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, making it kid-friendly and perfect for any household. You’ll love how quickly the cookies bake and how the tangy lemon lifts everyone’s spirits. These cookies also keep well, so they can be enjoyed over several days without losing their delightful taste and texture.
How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Roll the dough into balls and coat in powdered sugar.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Bright, zesty, and oh-so-easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies that bring smiles to everyone around the table.
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Roll the dough into balls and coat in powdered sugar.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
How to Serve
These Lemon Crinkle Cookies taste amazing on their own or paired with a cup of tea or glass of milk. Serve them as an after-school snack or pack them in lunchboxes for a delightful surprise. They also make a lovely addition to dessert tables at gatherings or parties.
How to Store
To keep your Lemon Crinkle Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They will stay tasty at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you want to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Tips and Variations
For an extra flavor twist, try adding a bit of lemon extract for more zing. You can also experiment by replacing half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty variation. If your family enjoys different flavors, substitute with orange zest and juice for a bright citrus alternative.
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking.
2. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should look set, while the centers may still appear slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
3. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, bottled lemon juice works as a substitute in a pinch.
Conclusion
Lemon Crinkle Cookies provide a fun and easy baking activity for you and your family. They come together quickly and taste amazing, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and do not forget to save it for later. Your family will thank you!
