Name: Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 19 min
Ingredients: 1 box lemon cake mix (15.25 ounces); 1 box instant lemon pudding mix (3.4 ounces); 2 large eggs; ¼ cup vegetable oil; ¼ cup lemon juice; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ⅓ cup confectioners’ sugar

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There’s something magical about baking, especially when it comes to creating Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies. These cookies remind me of sunny afternoons spent in the kitchen, where the scent of citrus fills the air and laughter echoes off the walls. I still remember the first time I made these delightful treats; the joy on my family’s faces as they sank their teeth into each soft, lemon-infused bite was priceless. Perfectly crinkled and lightly dusted with confectioners’ sugar, they’re not just cookies; they’re a burst of sunshine that can brighten even the gloomiest of days.

Every time I prepare Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies, it feels like a celebration. The zesty flavor brings freshness that makes them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, a family gathering, or just an afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, taking only a few simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. I can’t resist the cheerful yellow color and the way they practically sparkle with that sugar coating. They’re not just a treat; they’re a happy moment waiting to happen!

What I love about these cookies is their versatility. You can serve them during holidays or just whip them up as a special treat any time of the year. Whenever someone asks for a dessert recipe that’s both simple and delightful, I always recommend Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies. So, if you’re in the mood to bake, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
19 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
9 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1g g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
5g g

Tools Used:
Cookie Scoop Set, Nordic Ware Aluminum Half Sheet Pans, Pre-Cut Parchment Paper Baking Sheets

What Makes This Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies Special

They’re Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the best parts about Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies is how straightforward the recipe is. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious cookies ready to enjoy in no time. This is perfect for busy days when you need a sweet treat without all the fuss.

Bright and Zesty Flavor

The fresh flavors of lemon zest and lemon juice really shine in these cookies. Each bite offers a delightful tang that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the confectioners’ sugar. It’s a bright flavor that feels refreshing, making them a great treat at any time of the year!

Perfectly Crinkled Texture

There’s something about the crinkled tops of these cookies that just makes them so inviting. The texture is soft and chewy on the inside while having a slight crispness on the outside. Watching them bake and form those cracks is a joy in itself!

Great for Sharing

These cookies are a fantastic treat to share with friends and family. Their cheerful appearance and delightful taste make them a hit at gatherings. Plus, they’re a great way to spread a little happiness, especially when you see someone’s face light up as they take their first bite.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply a Thursday afternoon, Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies fit right in. You can easily dress them up with a little more lemon zest or even drizzle a lemon glaze on top for an extra special touch!

Lasting Freshness

These cookies can stay fresh for several days when stored properly. Keeping them in an airtight container ensures that they maintain their delightful texture and flavor, making them an excellent option for meal prep or snack planning.

What You Need for Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies

The ingredients for Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies come together to create a vibrant and flavorful treat. The key players here include a box of lemon cake mix and instant lemon pudding mix, which provide the essential lemon flavor and moisture that makes these cookies so delicious. The addition of eggs, vegetable oil, and lemon juice adds to the soft, chewy texture, while the confectioners’ sugar creates that delightful crinkle effect.

1 box lemon cake mix (15.25 ounces) – This is the primary ingredient that gives these cookies their lemony goodness.
1 box instant lemon pudding mix (3.4 ounces) – Adds extra richness and moisture, enhancing the texture.
2 large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together and providing structure.
¼ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cookies moist and adds to the chewiness.
¼ cup lemon juice – Freshly squeezed is best, adding brightness and flavor to the cookies.
2 teaspoons lemon zest – Intensifies the lemon flavor and aroma, making each bite refreshing.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Balances the tartness with a hint of sweetness.
⅓ cup confectioners’ sugar – Used for rolling the dough and creating that signature crinkle appearance.

Directions for Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Making Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with the sweet scent of lemon. Let’s get started on creating these little bites of sunshine!

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, eggs, vegetable oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer to blend these ingredients until well combined. The mixture should be thick and sticky, which means you’re on the right track.
Next, place the confectioners’ sugar into a medium bowl. This will be used to coat the cookie dough. The sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the lovely crinkly texture.
Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1 ½ tablespoons), scoop out portions of the dough. The dough will be sticky, so don’t worry! Drop each ball of dough into the bowl of confectioners’ sugar, rolling it to coat evenly. This step is what gives the cookies a beautiful snowy exterior.
Gently form each dough ball into a more rounded shape by lightly rolling it between your palms. This helps achieve that lovely crinkle shape once they bake.
Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about two inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the bottoms are set but the middles appear slightly undercooked. This is key to achieving a soft cookie.
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.
After cooling, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it helps maintain their texture. Enjoy your freshly baked Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and lemon zest make a huge difference in flavor. Ensure they’re fresh for the best results.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be set on the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, consider chilling it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different flavors like almond extract for a different twist if you want to change things up!

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies is how customizable they are. Here are some enjoyable ways to elevate your cookie-making experience:

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious.
Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just scoop the dough balls, roll in sugar, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
Pairing: These cookies go wonderfully with a cup of tea or a refreshing lemonade to enhance the lemon flavor.
Glazing: Consider drizzling a lemon glaze on top after baking for an extra sweet and tangy kick.
Adding Fruit: Mix in some blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist that complements the lemon nicely.
Colorful Sprinkles: Roll the dough balls in colorful sprinkles instead of sugar to make them festive for parties.

What to Pair With Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Pairing Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies with the right accompaniments can elevate your snack experience. Here are some delightful ideas:

Tea: Serve with a warm cup of chamomile or green tea. The calming flavors complement the zestiness of the cookies.
Lemonade: A glass of cold lemonade is a perfect match, bringing out the cookies’ bright flavors while keeping things refreshing.
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad on the side adds a healthy twist and complements the lemon theme beautifully.
Iced Coffee: For those who enjoy a caffeine kick, iced coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: A light cheese platter with mild cheeses can provide a savory balance to the sweet cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
Picnic Treats: These cookies are ideal for picnics! Pair them with sandwiches and fresh fruit for a complete outdoor meal.
Seasonal Celebrations: They’re perfect for spring and summer gatherings, adding a bright touch to any festive table.

FAQ

Yes, absolutely! While Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies are delightful as they are, you can experiment with other flavors. For instance, try substituting the lemon cake mix with vanilla or chocolate cake mix, and adjust the added flavors accordingly. The possibilities are endless, and it allows you to customize the cookies to your taste.

The best way to store Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies is in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps keep them soft and fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookie dough before baking, which allows you to enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime!

If your Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies don’t crinkle, it could be due to over-mixing the dough or not using enough confectioners’ sugar to coat the dough balls. Make sure the sugar is generously coating the dough before baking, as this promotes that lovely crinkle effect. Also, ensure you’re not overbaking them, as this can affect their texture!

Yes! To make Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies gluten-free, simply use gluten-free cake mix and pudding mix. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work perfectly in cookie recipes. Just be sure to check the labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Conclusion

Easy Lemon Crinkle Cookies are not just cookies; they are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their bright flavors and cheerful appearance, these cookies are sure to be a favorite in your home. So why not whip up a batch today? You’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!