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Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Lemon Crinkle Cookies
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These soft and chewy Lemon Crinkle Cookies are bursting with fresh citrus flavor and covered in a beautiful crackled powdered sugar coating. They’re bright, sweet, lightly tangy, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect with a cup of tea, for spring or summer baking, baby showers, or whenever you want a refreshing twist on classic cookies!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

    • Double for slightly stronger flavor, or add lemon extract for bolder flavor.

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 5–8 drops yellow food coloring (optional)

For Rolling

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  • Mix Dry Ingredients
    In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

  • Cream Butter & Sugar
    In a stand mixer, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).

  • Add Liquid Ingredients
    Mix in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and food coloring (if using).

  • Combine
    Gradually add dry ingredients and mix just until the dough comes together.
    Cover bowl and refrigerate for 2 hours.

  • Prep to Bake
    Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

  • Shape the Dough
    Use a small cookie scoop to form dough into balls. If dough seems soft, chill briefly again.

  • Coat Cookies
    Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar first, then powdered sugar for a thick coating.

  • Bake
    Place dough balls 2 inches apart and bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are set and cookies appear slightly puffed with crackles.

  • Cool
    Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Don’t skip chilling — prevents spreading and improves crackle effect.

  • Extra lemony flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract for stronger citrus punch.

  • For best crinkles, roll generously in powdered sugar.

  • If dough is too sticky to roll → chill longer.

Find it online: https://chocotune.com/lemon-crinkle-cookies/