Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe

If you are searching for a bright and cheerful treat to enjoy this winter holiday season, this Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with fresh lemon zest and juice, these cookies are delightfully soft, offering a tender crumb that melts in your mouth with every bite. The combination of tangy citrus and just the right amount of sweetness makes them a standout addition to your holiday cookie lineup. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to brighten the mood and bring smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these soft lemon cookies is wonderfully straightforward thanks to a handful of simple, classic ingredients that balance flavor and texture perfectly. Each component plays a vital role, from the creamy butter providing richness, to the fresh lemon zest delivering that unmistakable citrus punch.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Ensures a creamy texture without adding extra saltiness, balancing sweetness perfectly.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps achieve a delicate cookie structure.
• 2 large eggs: Bind all the ingredients and give the cookies their soft and tender texture.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Packs a concentrated burst of lemon aroma and flavor that defines these cookies.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds fresh lemon tang and acidity, brightening every bite.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances the lemon with a warm, comforting note.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cookies their structure and chew.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise gently for softness.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to create tender crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully without overpowering.
• Powdered sugar for rolling or dusting (optional): Adds a delicate sweetness and festive snow-like appearance.
• Festive sprinkles or colored sugar (optional): Gives a fun and colorful holiday touch that’s perfect for Christmas.

How to Make Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Workspace

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, giving you beautiful, clean bottoms to your soft lemon delights.

Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sugar

Using a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to incorporating air into the dough, which helps create that soft texture you want in your Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe.

Step 3: Adding Eggs, Lemon, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time to ensure a smooth mixture. Then stir in the zest of one lemon, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. This blend brings together the signature lemon flavor alongside warm undertones, enhancing the cookie’s aroma and taste.

Step 4: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour, ensuring balanced rise and flavor in each cookie.

Step 5: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing at this stage can make the cookies tough, so aim for a tender, workable dough.

Step 6: Chilling the Dough

Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking, resulting in perfectly soft centers and slightly set edges.

Step 7: Shaping and Decorating

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar or festive sprinkles if desired. These coatings add a final touch of sweetness and make the cookies feel extra special for holiday celebrations.

Step 8: Baking to Perfection

Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked. This ensures the perfect soft texture once cooled.

Step 9: Cooling

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on the sheet first helps them settle without breaking apart.

How to Serve Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Lightly dusting these cookies with extra powdered sugar adds a snowy, festive feel that’s visually delightful and adds a gentle sweetness. Adding colorful sprinkles can also bring instant holiday cheer, perfect if you want to make your cookie platter irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair these soft lemon cookies with a warm cup of spiced tea or a fresh, fruity glass of lemonade to amplify their citrus notes. For holiday parties, serving alongside hot cocoa with a cinnamon stick can make this treat feel even more cozy and indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary or holly to elevate their presentation. You can also stack them with parchment paper between layers inside a clear gift box or tin, making for a beautiful edible gift that spreads merry sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store your Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and fresh for several days, perfect for preparing in advance for holiday gatherings.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe container separated by parchment paper layers. Frozen lemon cookies keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste just as vibrant and soft.

Reheating

Warm your cookies slightly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes to refresh their soft texture and to enhance the citrus aroma before serving again.

FAQs

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice and zest?

While lemon extract can provide flavor, fresh lemon juice and zest lend a brighter, more natural citrus quality that really defines this Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe. Using fresh ingredients is always best for this recipe’s signature taste.

How do I know when the cookies are done without overbaking?

Look for edges that are set and centers that still appear slightly underbaked. Overbaking will dry out these soft cookies, so it’s better to err on the side of a slightly gooey center that firms up as it cools.

Can I substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?

You can use a gluten-free blend, but results may vary. Choose a blend designed for baking, and be mindful that texture might be a bit different, potentially less tender. Experimentation will help find your perfect balance.

Are these cookies suitable for freezing before baking?

Yes! You can freeze unbaked dough balls either rolled in sugar or plain. When ready, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

What’s the best way to make these cookies extra festive?

Rolling the dough balls in colored sugar or adding holiday-themed sprinkles transforms these lemon cookies into a festive visual delight. Adding a lemon glaze drizzle after baking will also add shine and enhance their lemon flavor beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe is truly a gift to your taste buds and holiday spirit. Its simple ingredients come together to create a soft, zesty cookie that feels both comforting and bright. I can’t recommend it enough for your seasonal baking, gifting, or anytime you want a joyful citrus treat. Give this recipe a try and let the warm lemon magic fill your kitchen with happiness and festive cheer!

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