Lemon Frosted Cookies Recipe

There is something utterly delightful about a burst of fresh citrus brightening up a classic cookie, and this Lemon Frosted Cookies Recipe does exactly that. These cookies combine a tender, buttery base with a tangy, creamy lemon frosting that feels like a sunny day on your taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and zesty with a texture that’s soft yet satisfyingly rich, making it an instant favorite every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Frosted Cookies Recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and color. From the creamy butter to the zesty lemons, every component is essential to crafting those irresistible cookies.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb to the cookie base.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the classic sweetness and helps with the cookie’s light texture.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and contributes to the soft chewiness.
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest: Infuses fresh citrus aroma and flavor directly into the dough.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright and tangy element that wakes up the dough.
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the cookie’s structure and tenderness.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Provides subtle lift and lightness.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic lemon juice for perfect rise and texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Gives the frosting its creamy, luscious base.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a smooth consistency.
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (for frosting): Boosts the frosting’s fresh lemon brightness.
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for frosting): Adds tang and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream: Adjusts the frosting consistency, making it silky and spreadable.

How to Make Lemon Frosted Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Area

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—this step is key for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Add Egg, Lemon Zest, and Lemon Juice

Mix in the egg thoroughly, then fold in the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice. These ingredients bring a vibrant citrus note that makes these cookies truly special.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mix is what gives your cookies structure and the right rise, so make sure it’s well combined.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually blend the dry ingredients with your wet mixture to create a smooth dough. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, ensuring your cookies stay tender.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then flatten each slightly—it helps them bake evenly and get that classic cookie shape. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges just start to turn golden.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely before frosting. This step prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Step 8: Make the Lemon Frosting

Beat the softened butter for the frosting until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar to build sweetness and thickness. Stir in lemon zest and juice for the perfect tangy finish.

Step 9: Adjust Frosting Consistency and Frost Cookies

Add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until your frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Finally, slather each cooled cookie with the luscious lemon frosting and get ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Lemon Frosted Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Try sprinkling a little extra lemon zest or finely chopped candied lemon peel on top of the frosting for an inviting burst of color and an extra hit of citrusy freshness. You could also add a tiny edible flower for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

These lemon frosted cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea like Earl Grey or chamomile, which complements their bright citrus flavor. For a more indulgent take, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter with fresh lemon slices and sprigs of mint. For parties, stack them with layers of frosting visible, or use a piping bag to add decorative swirls that make each cookie feel special and personalized.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and maintains that delightful lemon frosting without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cookie dough balls wrapped well in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake fresh. For baked cookies, freeze them unfrosted and add frosting after thawing.

Reheating

If you like your cookies slightly warm, gently heat them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds before spreading frosting or enjoying as is. Avoid reheating after frosting, as it can make the frosting melt.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for its bright, natural flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be sure it’s 100% lemon juice and not a concentrate with additives.

How do I get the frosting to the right consistency?

Start with less heavy cream and add it slowly, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is creamy but still thick enough to spread without running.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make gluten-free versions, you could try a gluten-free baking blend, but results may vary.

Can I make the frosting dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a non-dairy milk or cream in place of heavy cream to make the frosting vegan-friendly.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these lemon frosted cookies stay fresh and delicious for about 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is best.

Final Thoughts

If there ever were a cookie that could bring sunshine to your day, the Lemon Frosted Cookies Recipe is it. This recipe is straightforward, fun to make, and delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tart that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to bake a batch soon and share the joy of these zesty, tender cookies with your loved ones!

Print