Name: Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Zest; ½ cup Unsalted Butter; 1 Large Egg; 1 Egg Yolk; 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice; 1 teaspoon Lemon Extract; ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; ¼ teaspoon Baking Powder; ½ teaspoon Salt; 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Powdered Sugar

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The moment I think of Lemon Crinkle Cookies, I can’t help but smile. These delightful little treats are not just cookies; they are a burst of sunshine on a plate. I remember the first time I made them in my kitchen. The air filled with a sweet and tangy aroma that danced around me as I mixed the ingredients, making my heart flutter with excitement. Lemon zest, sugar, and the promise of that crispy exterior with a soft, chewy center were enough to make my senses tingle. It’s like catching a whiff of spring on a warm day, each bite transporting you to a sun-soaked garden filled with blooming flowers.

As I rolled the dough into balls, I could already envision the final product dusted with powdered sugar, resembling little snowballs. I often bake these cookies for gatherings or simply to indulge in a cozy afternoon treat. They bring people together, sparking joy and laughter with each delicious bite. Whether you’re sharing them at a potluck or enjoying them with a cup of tea, Lemon Crinkle Cookies are sure to brighten your day. They hold a special place in my heart, and I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, hoping it will become a cherished memory in your kitchen too.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
28 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
13 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Oven, Whisk, Baking Sheet

Why We Love This Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Bright Citrus Flavor

One of the main reasons I adore Lemon Crinkle Cookies is the bright citrus flavor. The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s like a little ray of sunshine in every bite!

Textural Delight

The contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, chewy center is simply irresistible. Each cookie has that delightful crinkle on top, which adds to its charm. You’ll love the way they melt in your mouth!

Easy to Make

This recipe is incredibly easy to follow. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Even if you’re a beginner, you’ll find this recipe approachable and foolproof.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookies are versatile. They’re fantastic for warm-weather gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a weekend treat at home. You can serve them at a picnic, brunch, or as a sweet snack after dinner.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Prep the dough ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. This way, you can bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house!

Kid-Friendly Fun

Get the kids involved! Making Lemon Crinkle Cookies can be a fun family activity. They’ll love rolling the dough in sugar and watching the cookies puff up in the oven.

Ingredient List for Lemon Crinkle Cookies

The ingredients for Lemon Crinkle Cookies are simple yet impactful. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect blend of sweetness and citrusy brightness. The star players are the granulated sugar and lemon zest, which infuse the cookies with their signature flavor, while the unsalted butter provides a rich, creamy texture. Together, they create a delightful cookie that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Granulated Sugar – 1 cup: This sweetener is essential for balancing the tartness of the lemon, giving the cookies their delightful sweetness.
Fresh Lemon Zest – 2 tablespoons: The zest brings intense lemon flavor and fragrance, elevating the cookies to another level.
Unsalted Butter – ½ cup, room temperature: Provides richness and moisture, ensuring the cookies are soft and chewy.
Large Egg – 1: Adds structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
Egg Yolk – 1: For extra richness, enhancing the cookie’s texture.
Fresh Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons: Contributes to the zesty flavor and adds moisture to the dough.
Lemon Extract – 1 teaspoon: Enhances the lemon flavor, making the cookies even more aromatic.
Vanilla Extract – ½ teaspoon: Adds depth of flavor, complementing the lemon perfectly.
All-Purpose Flour – 2 ½ cups: The main structure of the cookies, providing the right balance of texture.
Cornstarch – 1 teaspoon: Helps create a tender crumb and light texture.
Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.
Baking Powder – ¼ teaspoon: Works alongside baking soda for a perfect rise.
Salt – ½ teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Granulated Sugar – 2 tablespoons: For rolling the cookies, providing a delightful crunch.
Powdered Sugar – 1 cup: Adds a sweet finish and beautiful presentation when dusted on top.

Directions for Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Making Lemon Crinkle Cookies is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of these delightful treats. Each step is filled with the wonderful scents of baking and the joy of creating something special.

Add 1 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest to a large bowl. Use a fork to combine them until the sugar is moist and fragrant. The zest should release its oils, creating a beautiful aroma.
Next, add ½ cup unsalted butter and use a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment to beat the sugar and butter together on medium-high speed for 3 to 4 minutes, until the mixture turns light and fluffy. You should see the color change to a pale yellow.
Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. Now add 1 large egg, 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon lemon extract, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until just combined, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated but not overmixed.
In a separate medium bowl, combine 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon baking powder. Whisk together until evenly combined. This mixture will help give the cookies structure.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is crucial for the texture of the cookies, so don’t skip it!
After chilling, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line 2 to 3 baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure easy cleanup and prevent the cookies from sticking.
In a shallow dish, combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar with 1 cup powdered sugar. Stir them together well. This mixture will coat the cookies.
Use a medium cookie scoop to scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Roll the dough in your hands to form a uniform ball. This will help achieve even baking.
Roll each ball in the sugar mixture until fully coated. This will create that coveted crinkle effect when baked.
Place the balls on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving 2 inches between each. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies have set and the centers just begin to lose their shine. You want them to be slightly underbaked for that chewy texture.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for at least 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to finish cooling. Allowing them to rest helps them firm up without becoming hard.

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling the Dough: This is key to a perfect texture. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the flavors.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Using fresh lemons and high-quality unsalted butter will significantly impact the flavor of your cookies.
Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
Storing Cookies: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to add a twist to your Lemon Crinkle Cookies, here are some fun ideas that can elevate the classic recipe.

Change the Citrus: Instead of lemon, experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a different flavor profile.
Add Mix-Ins: Fold in some white chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor. Both complement the lemon beautifully.
Frost Them: For an extra sweet touch, consider frosting the cooled cookies with a light lemon glaze.
Make Cookie Sandwiches: Use two cookies and sandwich a layer of cream cheese frosting between them for a decadent treat.
Try Different Shapes: Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for special occasions or holidays.

Accompaniments for Lemon Crinkle Cookies

When serving Lemon Crinkle Cookies, consider enhancing the experience with delightful accompaniments.

Tea Pairing: Serve them alongside a refreshing cup of herbal tea or iced tea to complement the lemon flavor.
Picnic Treat: These cookies are perfect for summer picnics or outdoor gatherings. Their lightness makes them a great addition to any spread.
Brunch Delight: Include them in a brunch buffet alongside fresh fruit and pastries for a delightful variety.
Storage Tips: Store uneaten cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Seasonal Treat: These cookies can be made year-round but are particularly delightful in spring and summer, making them a great choice for seasonal gatherings.

FAQ

Lemon Crinkle Cookies stand out because of their unique texture and bright flavor. The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing twist that’s not found in traditional cookie recipes. The distinctive crinkle on top results from rolling the dough in powdered sugar before baking, giving them a beautiful appearance and a slight crunch that contrasts with their soft, chewy center. It’s this delightful mix of textures and flavors that makes them irresistible!

To keep your Lemon Crinkle Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their soft and chewy texture. If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze them. Simply place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.

While it’s tempting to use bottled lemon juice for convenience, I highly recommend using fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in Lemon Crinkle Cookies. Fresh lemon juice has a brighter, more vibrant taste that truly elevates the cookies. Additionally, fresh lemons provide zest, which is essential for that zesty kick in the recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute bottled juice, but the result may not be as flavorful.

Absolutely! Making the dough ahead of time is a great way to save time. You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze the dough for longer storage—just scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer!

Conclusion

The magic of Lemon Crinkle Cookies lies in their perfect balance of chewy and crispy textures combined with the zesty brightness of lemon. These cookies are not just a delicious treat; they’re a celebration of flavors and warmth that brings joy to any gathering. I encourage you to try making these at home, as they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. With their delightful crinkle tops and sweet, tangy taste, you won’t be able to resist having just one more!