Lemon Crinkle Cookies

These soft and chewy Lemon Crinkle Cookies are the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea! Their bright, delicate flavor comes from fresh lemon juice, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether it’s a spring gathering or a summer picnic, these cookies will surely impress your friends and family with their delightful taste and charming appearance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Bright Flavor: Fresh lemon juice gives these cookies a refreshing taste that stands out.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for holidays, parties, or just because!
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast of crispy powdered sugar outside and chewy goodness inside.
• Customizable Color: Add a pop of yellow with food coloring for festive occasions.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delightful Lemon Crinkle Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing ingredients effortless and ensures a fluffy batter.
• Cookie scoop: Helps in creating uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

These soft and chewy Lemon Crinkle Cookies are the perfect cookie to enjoy with a cup of tea! These sweet little bites are surprisingly easy to make and owe their bright, delicate flavor to fresh lemon juice.

For the Dough

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice*
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest*
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 5-8 drops yellow food coloring (optional)

For Coating

• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (aka icing sugar or confectioners sugar)

How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and food coloring (if using) and mix until combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the stand mixer. Mix until fully incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge to set for 2 hours.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

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

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out dough using a small cookie scoop. Roll each portion into a ball. If the dough feels too soft, place it back in the fridge for a bit.

Step 6: Coat the Dough Balls

Roll each dough ball in regular sugar first, then in powdered sugar until generously coated. Space them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake

Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes. Remove from oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Lemon Crinkle Cookies, packed with vibrant flavors that are sure to brighten your day!

How to Serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies

These delightful Lemon Crinkle Cookies are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or serving them at a gathering, here are some great ways to enjoy these cookies.

With Tea

• Pair with green tea for a refreshing afternoon treat.
• Enjoy alongside Earl Grey for a classic combination.

As Party Favors

• Package in decorative boxes for guests to take home.
• Include a small card with your favorite lemon dessert recipe.

At Brunch

• Serve on a platter alongside other pastries.
• Pair with fruit salads for a colorful spread.

During Picnics

• Individually wrap each cookie for easy transport.
• Combine with lemonade for a zesty summer treat.

As Dessert Bars

• Stack cookies in tiers on a dessert table.
• Add lemon slices as garnish for an extra touch.

How to Perfect Lemon Crinkle Cookies

To ensure your Lemon Crinkle Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest enhance flavor significantly.
• Measure accurately: Use the spoon and level method for flour to avoid dense cookies.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out.
• Coat generously: Roll in both regular and powdered sugar for that signature crinkle effect.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Lemon Crinkle Cookies make an excellent addition to any spread. Here are some delicious side dishes that pair well with these cookies.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Lemonade: This classic drink complements the lemon flavor perfectly, creating a refreshing pairing.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that provide a creamy contrast to the cookies’ texture.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a tasty breakfast or snack option alongside the cookies.
5. Tea Selection: Offer various types of tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, that harmonize beautifully with lemon-flavored treats.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The rich chocolate pairs well with the lightness of the cookies, creating an indulgent taste experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Crinkle Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little flour can change the texture. Always measure your ingredients precisely for the best results.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Be sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours.
• Oven Temperature Issues: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurate.
• Not Rolling in Sugar: Failing to coat the dough balls in sugar can result in less flavorful cookies. Make sure to roll them generously in both regular and powdered sugar.
• Overbaking: Leaving cookies in the oven too long can make them dry. Watch for slight golden edges and remove them promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lemon Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Crinkle Cookies

• Place baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Crinkle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Check often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat with a lid for about 1-2 minutes, allowing them to warm without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Lemon Crinkle Cookies.

How do I achieve the perfect texture for Lemon Crinkle Cookies?

To get that ideal soft and chewy texture, ensure you chill the dough sufficiently before baking. This helps prevent excess spreading.

Can I customize my Lemon Crinkle Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add poppy seeds for extra crunch or swap lemon zest with other citrus zest like orange or lime for different flavors.

Are Lemon Crinkle Cookies suitable for special diets?

These cookies are not gluten-free or dairy-free as written, but you can use gluten-free flour and vegan butter as substitutes if needed.

How long do baked Lemon Crinkle Cookies last?

When stored properly, baked Lemon Crinkle Cookies will remain fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

What should I serve with my Lemon Crinkle Cookies?

These delightful cookies pair perfectly with tea or coffee, making them great for afternoon snacks or dessert tables.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. Their soft and chewy texture makes them irresistible! Feel free to customize them with different flavors or toppings, ensuring they suit any palate. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these sweet bites at your next gathering!