Lemon Cooler Cookies are soft, zesty treats with a tender crumb and a refreshing burst of lemon flavor. Finished with a generous dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are cool, citrusy, and perfect for summer gatherings or a bright addition to any dessert tray.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
flour
unsalted butter
confectioners’ sugar
granulated sugar
lemon zest
lemon juice
cornstarch
vanilla extract
salt
baking powder
directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until light and fluffy.
Add lemon juice and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the bottoms are just lightly golden and the tops are set.
Let cookies cool for about 5 minutes, then roll them in confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Once completely cooled, roll them again in confectioners’ sugar for an extra snowy finish.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 30 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 12-14 minutes
Cooling and coating time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
Add a touch of almond extract for a nutty undertone.
Use lime or orange zest for a different citrus spin.
Dip half of each cookie in white chocolate for a decorative twist.
Add finely chopped candied lemon peel for texture and flavor.
storage/reheating
Store Lemon Cooler Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.
No reheating is necessary, but you can let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Why are they called “cooler” cookies?
The name comes from the cooling, refreshing flavor of lemon and the powdered sugar coating that gives them a frosty appearance.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I skip the second sugar coating?
Yes, but the second coating adds a pretty finish and an extra burst of sweetness.
Do these cookies spread a lot?
They hold their shape fairly well. Chilling the dough briefly can help prevent spreading if needed.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Are they very sweet?
They’re balanced with citrus tang and a moderate sweetness from the powdered sugar.
Conclusion
Lemon Cooler Cookies bring together tangy citrus flavor and sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture for a cookie that feels both refreshing and indulgent. Easy to make and delightful to eat, they’re sure to brighten any day and become a go-to favorite for lemon lovers.
PrintLemon Cooler Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Cooler Cookies are light, zesty, and coated in a sweet powdered sugar finish. These refreshing cookies are perfect for summer treats or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and cool slightly on the pan for 5 minutes.
- While still warm, roll cookies in the remaining powdered sugar to coat.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, optionally roll again in powdered sugar for an extra sweet finish.
Notes
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.