There’s something about cookies that just warms my heart, and when those cookies are infused with zesty lemon and topped with heavenly lemon frosting, I can hardly contain my excitement! Lemon Sugar Cookies with Lemon Frosting are my go-to treats for any occasion—a spontaneous family gathering, a weekend brunch, or just when I want to sweeten up a rainy day. I vividly remember my first encounter with these cookies at a summer picnic. The sun was shining, laughter filled the air, and as I took a bite, I was instantly transported to a world of citrusy bliss.
Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that moment. The combination of sweet and tart in these cookies makes them utterly irresistible. Plus, they are simple to make, and the scent of lemons wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wondering if you’re some sort of baking wizard. Let’s dive into these delightful little bundles of joy!
What’s in Lemon Sugar Cookies with Lemon Frosting?
- Unsalted butter: Always go for unsalted; it allows you to control the amount of salt in your cookies. I usually grab the Kerrygold brand because it’s wonderfully creamy.
- Granulated sugar: This is essential for sweetness and structure. It’s amazing what a little sugar can do!
- Eggs: Two large eggs add moisture and act as binding agents to ensure your cookies hold together beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: A classic flavor that complements the lemon perfectly. I prefer using pure vanilla for the best flavor.
- Lemon zest: The zest from about one lemon gives these cookies their signature citrusy kick. Trust me, don’t skimp on this!
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookie dough. Measure it accurately for the best results!
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents work together to give your cookies the perfect lift.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the delicious flavors. This recipe calls for half a teaspoon, which is spot on.
- Powdered sugar: The star of the frosting show! It creates that dreamy, fluffy texture we all love.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best—it’s what adds that delightful tang to your frosting.
- Heavy cream or milk: This will help achieve the perfect frosting consistency: creamy and spreadable!
Are Lemon Sugar Cookies with Lemon Frosting Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health—because who doesn’t love a little indulgence with a side of wellness? While unsalted butter and granulated sugar give these cookies their necessary sweetness and richness, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation. On the upside, lemon zest and lemon juice pack a vitamin C punch, much needed to support your immune system—so there’s a tiny element of health there!
However, if you’re watching your sugar intake or going for a healthier option, you can experiment with reducing the sugar content in the cookies and frosting or swapping for alternatives like coconut sugar or even a sugar-free blend. Just remember, the taste may change a bit, but the joy of baking remains the same!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (for frosting), softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk for desired consistency)
How to Make Lemon Sugar Cookies with Lemon Frosting?
- Preheat the Oven: First up, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line those baking sheets with parchment paper. A well-prepared workspace sets the mood!
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. It should take about 3-5 minutes. Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and nobody likes tough cookies!
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers. The cookies will spread a little, creating their perfect shape.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake; the cookies should be soft in the center. Trust me, they’ll firm up as they cool!
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the Lemon Frosting: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream (or milk) one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, use a piping bag fitted with a large star tip to swirl the lemon frosting onto each cookie, or simply spread the frosting with a spatula for a more rustic look.
Tips for a Zesty Baking Adventure!
- For that extra touch, you can garnish the frosted cookies with additional lemon zest or even small edible flowers. It’s all about the presentation, right?
- If you have any sprinkles lying around that match the lemony theme, sprinkle those on top of the frosting for a burst of color!
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—if they last that long!
So there you have it! These Lemon Sugar Cookies with Lemon Frosting are bursting with flavor and sure to brighten anyone’s day. I encourage you to give them a whirl and savor the delightful taste of summer in every bite. If you do try this recipe, let me know how it turned out for you! Happy baking!
