ARKEPIN
Lemon Zest Christmas Cookies Recipe
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Lemon Zest Christmas Cookies that bring a fresh twist to your holiday celebrations; discover the recipe inside!
What kind of recipe is it?
The Lemon Zest Christmas Cookies are a delightful blend of sweetness and citrusy brightness, making them a perfect festive treat.
These cookies boast a unique combination of zesty lemon flavor and buttery richness, creating a revitalizing twist on traditional holiday cookies.
Ideal for anyone looking to share joyful baked goods during the holiday season, they’re especially appealing to those who appreciate the vibrant taste of lemon.
Bake these cookies for family gatherings or as thoughtful gifts that will brighten any celebration!
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Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks), softened |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup, packed |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Lemon zest | Zest of 2 lemons |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Powdered sugar | For dusting (optional) |
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Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Line two baking sheets (preferably non-stick) with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 315 g (2 ½ cups) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 226 g (1 cup) of softened unsalted butter, 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar, and 100 g (½ cup, packed) brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. The mixture should appear pale and creamy.
- Add 1 large egg, the zest of 2 lemons, 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of lemon juice, and 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the large bowl, mixing on low speed until combined. Don’t overmix; stop when there are no visible flour streaks. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll it into balls, placing them 5 cm (2 inches) apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes until the edges are lightly browned and the tops appear set but still soft. The cookies should have a subtle lemon aroma and a slight golden color.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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Variations
- Lemon Blueberry Cookies: Add 150 g (1 cup) of fresh or frozen blueberries to the dough for a fruity twist that complements the lemon flavor.
- Vegan Lemon Cookies: Substitute the egg with 60 ml (¼ cup) of unsweetened applesauce and replace the butter with 226 g (1 cup) of coconut oil for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies: Use 315 g (2 ½ cups) of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version that retains great texture.
- Lemon Rosemary Cookies: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh rosemary into the dough for a savory herbal contrast against the lemony sweetness.
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Tips on plating and presentation
Although the cookies might be delicious on their own, presenting them beautifully can elevate your holiday gatherings.
I love using festive platters or cake stands to create height and interest. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or some edible glitter can provide a touch of elegance.
Finally, pairing them with colorful garnishes like fresh berries or mint leaves makes the presentation pop!
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What other dishes can I pair it with?
Creating a stunning presentation is just the beginning of an unforgettable holiday experience.
I love pairing my lemon zest Christmas cookies with fresh fruit salads or a light spinach salad topped with citrus vinaigrette. They also complement savory dishes like roasted chicken or glazed ham beautifully.
Balancing these flavors brings out the zest in the cookies, making every bite delightful.
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What drinks can I pair it with?
What drinks can elevate your lemon zest Christmas cookies to the next level?
I love pairing them with a warm cup of chai tea; the spices complement the cookies beautifully.
A light sparkling lemonade also works wonders, enhancing the citrus flavor.
For a festive touch, serve them with eggnog or mulled wine, creating a perfect holiday vibe.
Enjoy experimenting!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Lemon Juice Instead of Lemon Zest?
I wouldn’t recommend using lemon juice instead of lemon zest. The zest offers a concentrated, aromatic flavor that juice can’t match. If you have zest, it really elevates your recipe to a whole new level!
How Long Do the Cookies Last When Stored?
I’ve found these cookies last about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you refrigerate them, they can stay fresh for even longer, up to two weeks. Enjoy!
Are These Cookies Suitable for Vegan Diets?
Yes, I’ve made these cookies vegan-friendly by using plant-based alternatives for eggs and butter. They taste just as delicious, and I promise you won’t miss the classic ingredients one bit! Give it a try!
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?
Absolutely, you can freeze the cookie dough! I usually portion it out, wrap it tightly in plastic, and store it in the freezer. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking whenever I’m ready!
What Temperature Should the Oven Be Preheated To?
I always preheat my oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. It guarantees my cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. Trust me; that temperature’s ideal for delicious, soft treats you’ll love every time!
