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Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Lemon Crinkle Cookies are sun-kissed treats with a crispy exterior and soft, chewy center, perfect for any spring occasion or as a delightful gift.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baked Goods
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Dough
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Spoon into measuring cup and level off for best results.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Use for both rubbing with zest and in the dough.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is at room temperature.
  • 2 large eggs Use fresh eggs for best texture.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest Rub into the granulated sugar before mixing for maximum flavor.
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Use fresh juice instead of bottled for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Leavening agent for the cookies.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor.
For the Coating
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar For rolling the dough balls.
  • 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar For the snowy coating.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and lemon zest, rubbing the zest into the sugar with your fingertips to release essential oils.
  2. Cream together the butter and the sugar mixture until light and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs and mix well.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  6. Chill the dough for at least 2 hours to prevent spreading.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Form chilled dough into balls, rolling them first in granulated sugar and then in confectioners' sugar.
  3. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced about 2 inches apart.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly underbaked.
  5. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container at room temperature. To keep cookies soft, add a slice of bread in the container or freeze unbaked dough for later use.