Zesty Summer Sugar Cookies Recipe You’ll Love to Bake
Discover the delightful summer sugar cookies recipe with zesty lemon flavors. Perfect for picnics or a sweet treat!
Equipment
- - Electric mixer
- - Baking sheet
- - Parchment paper
- - Mixing bowls
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest divided
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds warmth
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract optional
- 2 cups all-purpose flour main structure
- 1/2 teaspoon salt balances sweetness
- 1 teaspoon baking soda helps cookies rise
Instructions
How to Make Summer Sugar Cookies
- Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed for about 3 to 5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Beat in one large room temperature egg, then add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and the optional lemon extract if desired.
- Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt by turning your mixer to low and mix until fully combined. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with a nonstick mat or parchment paper.
- Scoop out about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough and roll them into round balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 3 inches apart.
- Bake for 11-12 minutes, until the cookies are slightly puffy and beginning to brown on the bottom.
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining lemon zest on top and cool on the cookie sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Serve with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!