When life gives you lemons, make cookies—specifically, these Zesty Lemon Frosted Cookies that are guaranteed to brighten any day. Imagine the first bite: soft, chewy dough giving way to a refreshingly tart burst of lemon that dances on your palate, perfectly complemented by a creamy frosting that offers a delightful tang. This recipe is a treasure I stumbled upon during a particularly gray week, and it transformed my baking routine into something vibrant and exciting.
Perfect for serving at brunch or simply indulging in during a quiet afternoon, these cookies are an easy way to bring joy to your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have gorgeous cookies that not only taste amazing but look stunning as well. So gather your lemons and let’s whip up a batch that will have everyone smiling—these treats are just the sunshine your dessert table needs!
Why Are Lemon Frosted Cookies So Irresistible?
Delightful Flavor: Each bite bursts with a zesty lemon flavor that’s refreshing and uplifting.
Easy to Make: Just mix and bake! This simple recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum taste.
Visual Appeal: Brightly frosted, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them perfect for gatherings.
Versatile Treat: Serve them at brunch, high tea, or simply enjoy as an afternoon snack. For more exciting ideas, check out my guide on cookies for every occasion.
Guaranteed Smiles: Their cheerful color and tangy sweetness are sure to bring joy to friends and family alike!
Lemon Frosted Cookies Ingredients
Discover the simple components that make these Lemon Frosted Cookies a beloved treat!
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Provides a rich and tender texture; margarine can be used for a dairy-free treat.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve that lovely golden color; reducing a bit balances the lemon’s tartness.
- 1 large egg – Binds everything together; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 lemons) – Delivers an intense lemon flavor; always opt for fresh lemons for the best results.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Enhances the cookie’s tartness and moisture; bottled juice is a backup!
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the cookie’s delightful structure; a gluten-free blend can be used as a substitute.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works harmoniously with the acidic lemon juice for that perfect leavening action.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Elevates flavor and balances sweetness.
For the Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds creaminess to the frosting; cream cheese offers a richer taste if desired.
- 3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; reduce the quantity for a less sweet option.
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (for frosting) – Infuses the frosting with zesty brightness.
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for frosting) – Provides a delightful tang; bottled lemon juice is an alternative but fresh is best!
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional) – Adjusts the frosting consistency; omit for a thicker icing.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating delectable Lemon Frosted Cookies that will surely become a favorite in your home!
How to Make Lemon Frosted Cookies
-
Prep Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather all your ingredients, ensuring your butter is softened for easy mixing.
-
Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing well to combine. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well incorporated.
-
Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop out balls of dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.
-
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Remember, they will continue to firm up as they cool.
-
Cool: Once baked, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
Prepare Frosting: In a clean bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
-
Frost Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost each cookie with the lemon frosting, adding a beautiful swirl on top. Enjoy these delightful treats!
Optional: Sprinkle a little extra lemon zest on top of the frosting for a beautiful finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Lemon Frosted Cookies?
Transform your cookie experience into a delightful feast that resonates with freshness and joy.
- Bright Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and citrus complements the tangy lemon flavor beautifully.
- Herbal Iced Tea: Refreshing and lightly sweetened herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, balances the cookies’ zesty sweetness while providing a soothing experience.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the cookies’ chewy texture, creating a pleasant temperature and taste combination.
- Lemonade Spritzer: A sparkling lemonade with fresh mint enhances the cookie experience and lifts the refreshing notes of lemon even higher.
- Light Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese with honey create a beautiful harmony with the cookies, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
- Lemon Sorbet: Continue the lemon theme with a zesty sorbet that cleanses the palate and adds an extra layer of citrusy delight.
- Chilled Prosecco: A glass of bubbly adds a festive touch to any occasion, enhancing the flavors of the frosting while lightening up the dessert table.
- Coffee or Espresso: A rich coffee or espresso makes for a perfect pairing, balancing the sweetness and providing a warming contrast.
With these suggestions, you can create a cheerful setting that celebrates every zesty bite of your Lemon Frosted Cookies!
Lemon Frosted Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious cookies and make them your own!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or margarine for a delightful dairy-free version of these cookies.
- Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) to keep these cookies plant-based.
- Zesty Lime Twist: Swap the lemon zest for lime zest, and replace lemon juice with fresh lime juice for a refreshing twist.
- Fruity Combinations: Add dried cranberries or cherries to the dough for an unexpected burst of flavor in every bite.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate slivered almonds or chopped pecans into the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Limoncello Frosting: For a grown-up version, mix a splash of limoncello into the frosting for an adult-themed treat.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosted cookies for a rich chocolatey contrast to the tart lemon flavor.
- Herbaceous Infusion: Stir in a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic, gourmet flavor profile!
These variations not only make your cookies exciting but also let you cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that your baking adventure is always delightful!
Storage Tips for Lemon Frosted Cookies
- Room Temperature: Keep your lemon frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to preserve their softness and flavor.
- Fridge: If you’ve decorated them with frosting, consider refrigerating them to maintain freshness; they can last up to a week in the fridge.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container once frozen; they can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds; be cautious not to overheat them to avoid drying out.
Make Ahead Options
These Zesty Lemon Frosted Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their baking routine! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can also make the frosting up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in a sealed container, and give it a good stir before using to restore its creamy texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and bake the cookies directly from the fridge, following the baking instructions for a delightful treat that tastes just as fresh as if made that day! This prep-ahead method allows you to enjoy homemade Lemon Frosted Cookies with minimal fuss, perfect for last-minute gatherings or a sweet snack at home.
Expert Tips for Lemon Frosted Cookies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemons for zest and juice to achieve the most vibrant flavor in your lemon frosted cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If your cookie dough spreads too much while baking, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before scooping to maintain shape.
- Monitor Baking Time: Take the cookies out when they are still soft in the center to ensure a chewy texture. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
- Measure Carefully: Be precise with your flour measurement, as too much can lead to a dense cookie; using a kitchen scale for accuracy is recommended.
- Frost When Cool: Wait until the cookies have completely cooled before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and losing its texture.
Lemon Frosted Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right lemons for my cookies?
Absolutely! Look for lemons that are firm and heavy for their size, as this indicates juiciness. The skin should be bright yellow and fragrant, avoiding any that have dark spots or are too soft, as these may be overripe.
What is the best way to store Lemon Frosted Cookies?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If they’re frosted, I recommend placing them in the refrigerator to retain their freshness for about a week. To keep them from drying out, you can layer them between sheets of wax paper.
Can I freeze Lemon Frosted Cookies?
Yes! To freeze, first cool the unfrosted cookies completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If you find the dough is too sticky, it might help to chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This resting time allows the butter to firm up, making it easier to scoop and shape the cookies. Just remember to keep an eye on the baking time, as chilled dough may require an extra minute or two in the oven!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Lemon Frosted Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to maintain the right texture. Follow the same recipe instructions, and you’re all set for a delightful treat.
Are there any allergen considerations for these cookies?
For those with dairy allergies, you can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like margarine or coconut oil. If eggs are a concern, try using a flax egg in place of each egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water—let it sit until it thickens. Always check your ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Lemon Frosted Cookies: Brighten Your Day with Zesty Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather all your ingredients, ensuring your butter is softened for easy mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing well to combine. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well incorporated.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out balls of dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing the dough balls about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
- Once baked, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a clean bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost each cookie with the lemon frosting, adding a beautiful swirl on top.