Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe (Soft, Chewy & Easy)
These Soft Lemon Cookies are irresistibly chewy, buttery, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor from real lemon zest and juice. Finished with a sparkling sugar coating, they're the perfect bright and refreshing treat for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk room temperature
- 2 tsp lemon extract
- 3 cups all purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- ¾ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg, egg yolk, and lemon extract until fully incorporated.Add Dry Ingredients
Add flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. Pour the lemon juice directly over the baking soda and mix until just combined.Chill the Dough
Scoop the dough into 1½ to 2 tablespoon portions and roll into balls. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.Roll and Bake
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar and place on lined baking sheets.Bake
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers remain slightly soft.Cool and Serve
Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Rub the lemon zest into the sugar before mixing to maximize citrus flavor.
- Do not skip the chilling step for thicker, chewier cookies.
- Slightly underbake the cookies for the softest texture.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze baked cookies or cookie dough for up to 3 months.