Lemon Christmas Cookies Recipe Zesty

Uncover the delightful twist of Lemon Christmas Cookies that infuse festive cheer—discover the secret to making them irresistibly zesty!

What kind of recipe is it?

Lemon Christmas cookies are a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats, offering a bright and invigorating flavor that contrasts delightfully with rich seasonal desserts.

These cookies feature a zesty lemon flavor, a soft and chewy texture, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch. Perfect for family gatherings, cookie swaps, or as a unique addition to your holiday dessert table, these cookies appeal to lemon lovers and those seeking a lighter option amidst heavier holiday fare.

Enjoy baking these cheerful cookies and share them with loved ones this season!

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Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Lemon zest 1 tablespoon
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Baking soda 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Egg 1 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Powdered sugar (for dusting) As needed for dusting

Feel free to adjust the quantities based on the number of cookies you wish to make!

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Cooking Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Position the oven rack in the center to guarantee even baking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups (240 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
  3. In another large bowl, cream 1/2 cup (113 g) of unsalted butter and 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on medium until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture from step 2 to the wet mixture from step 4. Mix on low speed until just combined to avoid over-mixing; this should take about 30 seconds.
  6. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and mix on low until the dough comes together, approximately 15-30 seconds. The dough should be soft but not too sticky.
  7. Using a melon baller or cookie scoop, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls (about 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter). Place them on a lined baking sheet, spaced about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and remain soft in the center; they’ll firm up as they cool.
  9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. They should feel slightly firm to touch but not hard.
  10. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
  11. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar as desired before serving. The sugar will add a festive touch and contrast with the bright lemon flavor.
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Variations

  • Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Add 2 tablespoons (30 g) of poppy seeds to the dough for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with 2 cups (240 g) of a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
  • Vegan Lemon Cookies: Replace the egg with 1/4 cup (60 ml) of unsweetened applesauce and use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
  • Lemon Cranberry Cookies: Fold in 1 cup (120 g) of dried cranberries to the dough for a tart and fruity twist that complements the lemon flavor.
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Tips on plating and presentation

vibrant lemon cookie display

After trying out different variations of lemon cookies, it’s time to make them look as delightful as they taste.

I love using colorful plates to showcase their vibrant lemon glaze. A dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance, while fresh mint leaves give a pop of color.

Finally, arranging them in tiers creates visual interest that’ll impress anyone at your holiday gathering!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

festive menu pairing suggestions

While planning a festive menu, consider pairing your lemon Christmas cookies with complementary dishes to enhance the overall experience.

I love serving them alongside a light, fresh salad with citrus vinaigrette or a creamy cheesecake to balance the tartness.

For a savory twist, you can try roasted chicken or fish, adding a bright flavor contrast to the cookies.

Happy pairing!

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What drinks can I pair it with?

lemon cookie drink pairings

Pairing drinks with lemon Christmas cookies can elevate your holiday experience even further.

I love serving these cookies with a revitalizing glass of iced tea or a light sparkling lemonade. If you prefer something warmer, a cup of ginger tea pairs perfectly too.

For cocktails, I enjoy a citrusy mojito, which complements the zesty flavor of the cookies beautifully.

Enjoy experimenting!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Lemon With Other Citrus Fruits?

Absolutely, you can substitute lemon with other citrus fruits! I’ve used lime and orange in recipes before, and they add a delightful twist. Just adjust the zest and juice based on your taste preferences.

How Long Do These Cookies Last in Storage?

These cookies last about a week in storage if kept in an airtight container. I usually freeze mine for longer freshness, and they still taste great after thawing. Enjoy them whenever you’re craving a sweet treat!

What Is the Best Way to Freeze These Cookies?

I freeze these cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once they’re frozen solid, I transfer them to an airtight container to keep them fresh for later enjoyment.

Are There Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?

Yes, I’ve made gluten-free options for these cookies. I use almond flour instead of regular flour, and they turn out delicious! Just make sure to check other ingredients for gluten content as well. Enjoy!

Can I Make These Cookies Vegan?

Yes, you can definitely make these cookies vegan! I substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use non-dairy butter. It’s easy, and they still come out deliciously soft and flavorful. Give it a try!