Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Are you craving something sweet, tangy, and full of zesty goodness? Look no further! Lemon crinkle cookies are the perfect blend of citrus flavor and sugary sweetness that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. These cookies are soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and packed with a fresh burst of lemon flavor in every bite. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to making these delicious cookies, including all the ingredients, tips, and variations you need to make them your new favorite treat.

What are Lemon Crinkle Cookies?

Lemon crinkle cookies are soft, chewy cookies infused with fresh lemon zest and juice. The signature “crinkle” look comes from rolling the cookie dough in powdered sugar before baking, which creates cracks and fissures on the cookie's surface as they bake. These cookies have a light, refreshing flavor that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you're baking for a party or simply treating yourself to something special.

Ingredients List for Lemon Crinkle Cookies

To make a batch of delicious lemon crinkle cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Enhances the texture of the cookies, making them soft.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the lemon flavor.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cookies.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and slight crispness.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Provides fresh, zesty flavor.
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Intensifies the lemony taste.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
• ¾ cup powdered sugar: For rolling the dough balls and creating the crinkle effect.

Ingredients List for Lemon Crinkle Cookies (Expanded Version)

For those who prefer making cookies with added texture or want a slightly different version, here’s an extended ingredients list with a few optional additions:

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Ensures a lighter, fluffier cookie.
• 2 tablespoons lemon extract (optional): For an extra burst of lemon flavor.
• White chocolate chips or chunks (optional): Adds sweetness and creaminess to complement the lemon flavor.
• Poppy seeds (optional): For a subtle crunch and a bit of visual flair.
• Yellow food coloring (optional): To give the cookies a bright, lemony appearance.

These variations allow you to customize your lemon crinkle cookies to suit your personal taste.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the joys of baking is being able to adapt recipes based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few substitution ideas and variations for lemon crinkle cookies:

• Butter Substitution: You can replace unsalted butter with margarine or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that this might slightly change the texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. Be sure to check that the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Sugar Alternatives: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-glycemic option. Note that the color of the cookies might be darker.
• Citrus Variations: If you want to try something new, swap the lemon juice and zest with lime, orange, or grapefruit for a different citrus twist.
• Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in extras like shredded coconut, white chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your own lemon crinkle cookies from scratch:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Egg, Lemon, and Vanilla: Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined. If you’re using lemon extract or food coloring, add those in as well.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cookies tough.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crinkle effect and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
7. Form Cookie Dough Balls: Once the dough is chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to form dough balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
8. Bake: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are cracked.
9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Cook Lemon Crinkle Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven to 350°F: Ensure your oven is hot and ready before you start shaping your cookie dough.
2. Chill the Dough: This helps solidify the fat in the cookies, ensuring they don’t spread too much during baking. Chilling also enhances the flavor.
3. Coat in Powdered Sugar: The key to creating the beautiful crinkled look is rolling the cookie dough in powdered sugar. As the cookies bake, they expand, causing cracks in the sugar coating.
4. Bake Until Just Set: The cookies should be slightly soft in the middle but firm around the edges. The key is not to overbake them, so keep an eye on your oven.
5. Cool Completely Before Serving: While it may be tempting to eat them warm, allowing the cookies to cool ensures they firm up and have the right texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies that spread too thin, losing the crinkle effect.
• Overbaking: Lemon crinkle cookies should be soft and chewy. Overbaking will make them hard and dry.
• Under-coating with Powdered Sugar: For that signature crinkle look, make sure each dough ball is generously coated in powdered sugar before baking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Lemon crinkle cookies are as delicious as they are visually appealing, so don’t shy away from making them the star of your dessert table. Here are some tips to serve them in style:

• Serve with Tea or Coffee: These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon tea or a casual get-together.
• Gift Boxes or Jars: Lemon crinkle cookies make a beautiful and thoughtful gift. Arrange them in a decorative box or jar with a ribbon for a lovely homemade gift idea.
• Citrus-Themed Party: If you’re hosting a party, consider a citrus theme and serve these cookies alongside lemon bars, lemonade, and other lemon-flavored treats.

How to Serve Lemon Crinkle Cookies

• As a Dessert: Serve your lemon crinkle cookies on a platter for an after-dinner treat.
• With Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent dessert, serve these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lemon sorbet.

Presentation Ideas for Lemon Crinkle Cookies

• Stacked Display: Stack the cookies on a tiered serving tray for an elegant presentation.
• Lemon Zest Garnish: Sprinkle a bit of extra lemon zest on top of the cookies before serving for a pop of color and extra citrus flavor.

Lemon Crinkle Cookies Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before you start mixing. This ensures the ingredients combine smoothly and create a uniform dough.
• Generously Coat in Powdered Sugar: Don't skimp on the powdered sugar coating; it’s essential for creating the crinkle look.
• Don’t Skip the Chilling Step: Chilling the dough helps control the spread of the cookies and enhances the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze lemon crinkle cookies?

Yes! You can freeze both the baked cookies and the dough. If freezing the dough, roll it into balls, freeze on a tray, and then transfer to an airtight container. Coat them in powdered sugar before baking.

2. How long do lemon crinkle cookies stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature. You can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

3. Can I make lemon crinkle cookies without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan version.

4. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. However, be sure to add lemon zest for a stronger lemon flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon crinkle cookies are a delightful, zesty treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple, fun, and produces beautiful, delicious cookies every time. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and make them your own! Happy baking!

Print