Lemon Frosted Cookies

There’s something irresistible about the zesty brightness of these Lemon Frosted Cookies. Soft, buttery cookies topped with a sweet and tangy lemon frosting make for the perfect treat. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a delightful dessert for a gathering, these cookies are guaranteed to brighten your day with every bite!

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Why You’ll Love These Lemon Frosted Cookies

• Soft and Chewy: The perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Bursting with Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest give these cookies a vibrant citrus kick.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are as great for a tea party as they are for a casual snack.

Ingredients for Lemon Frosted Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to bake these delicious cookies:

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and softness.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: For just the right amount of sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the dough and adds structure.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: For a subtle lemon flavor in the dough.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds an extra punch of citrus flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the cookies.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cookies a slight lift.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Ensures the cookies are soft and tender.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.

For the Lemon Frosting:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: The base for a smooth, sweet frosting.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: For tangy, zesty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Infuses the frosting with a bold citrus taste.
• 1-2 tablespoons milk: To adjust the consistency.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Adds creaminess to the frosting.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls: For preparing the dough and frosting.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: To cream the butter and sugar.
• Baking sheet: To bake the cookies.
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Zester or grater: To zest the lemons.

How to Make Lemon Frosted Cookies

1. Preheat Your Oven
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
   • In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
   • Beat in the egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Scoop and Bake
   • Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft.
   • Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Lemon Frosting
   • In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Add more milk, a little at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. It should be thick but spreadable.
5. Frost the Cookies
   • Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on each one using a butter knife or the back of a spoon.
6. Let the Frosting Set
   • Allow the frosting to set for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk.
• Sprinkle a pinch of extra lemon zest or a few sugar crystals on the frosting for added texture and presentation.

Tips for the Best Lemon Frosted Cookies

• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh juice and zest make a big difference in flavor.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If your dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking.
• Make Them Fancy: Add a drop of yellow food coloring to the frosting for a vibrant, sunny look.
• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze the unfrosted cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make the frosting less sweet?
A: Yes! Add a touch more lemon juice or zest to balance out the sweetness.

Q2: Can I use gluten-free flour?
A: Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe doubles beautifully to make a larger batch.

Conclusion: A Bright, Citrus Delight!

These Lemon Frosted Cookies are the perfect way to bring a burst of sunshine to your day. With their soft, buttery texture and sweet-tangy frosting, they’re a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share the joy with family and friends!

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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Nutritional Information (per cookie)
Calories: 160
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 0g

Enjoy these sweet, zesty treats, and let the lemony goodness brighten your day!

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