Bright & Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies

Bright & Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookies

If sunshine had a flavour, I’m convinced it would taste like these Lemon Sugar Cookies. Crisp edges, soft chewy centers, and a citrusy zing that lifts your spirits with every bite – this recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create magic.

Whether you’re baking for springtime gatherings, gifting a homemade treat, or just craving something sweet and tangy, these cookies are here to brighten your day.

Why You’ll Love These Lemon Sugar Cookies

• Easy to make – No complicated steps, just simple pantry staples.

• Zingy fresh lemon flavor – Thanks to real lemon juice and zest.

• Perfect texture – Crisp on the outside, soft in the middle.

Make-ahead friendly – The dough freezes well, so you can bake when the craving hits.

🍋 Ingredients

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon zest 
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 egg
• 2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla 
• Extra granulated sugar, for rolling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter, sugar & lemon zest in a large bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). This step helps release the lemon oils for maximum flavour.
3. Add the egg, vanilla, and lemon juice, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls (about 1 tablespoon each), then roll them in sugar. Place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten the tops of the balls on the sheet before baking; this will help give the perfect shape. 
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centre looks set.
7. Let cool on the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pro Tips:

• Use very soft butter! Making sure your butter is super soft, as this will make it easier to cream together with the sugar, and give the best texture to these cookies. 
• Rub the lemon zest into the sugar before adding it to the butter. Rubbing the lemon zest into the sugar with your fingertips helps to release the oils from the zest, giving you a more pronounced lemon flavour. 
• Add a glaze! You can add a simple lemon glaze to this cookie to take it up a notch. Simply add powdered sugar and lemon juice to a bowl and mix. Add this to the cookies once cooled. 

These lemon sugar cookies are like a little burst of sunshine in cookie form – perfect for tea time, gifting, or just treating yourself. Give them a try and don’t forget to share your batch with me on Instagram.