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Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Lemon crinkle cookies with chewy centers and powdered sugar crackle tops.

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These lemon crinkle cookies are a burst of citrusy sunshine with a soft, chewy center and a beautiful crackly powdered sugar top. Simple ingredients come together for a joyful, bright treat perfect for any time of year.

Ingredients

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  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • Zest of 2 large lemons
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar with a mixer for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg, then add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low just until no dry streaks remain.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
  7. Scoop dough by heaping tablespoons, roll into balls, and coat generously in powdered sugar.
  8. Place balls 2 inches apart on baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and tops are cracked.
  9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the dough is essential to prevent excessive spreading. Use only fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. For gluten-free cookies, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

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