Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe
Introduction
The holiday season is a time of warmth, joy, and indulgence. Kitchens everywhere fill with the comforting aromas of cinnamon, ginger, chocolate, and vanilla. But sometimes, amidst all the rich flavors of Christmas, we crave something bright and refreshing. That’s where these Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies come in.
Soft, pillowy, and bursting with citrus flavor, these cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The lemon zest and juice bring a cheerful brightness that cuts through the richness of butter and sugar, making them a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter. Dusted with powdered sugar, they look like little snow-covered treats—ideal for Christmas gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea by the fire.
This recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers yet impressive enough to wow your guests. With a few pantry staples and fresh lemons, you’ll have a batch of cookies that taste like sunshine wrapped in holiday cheer.
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp grated lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Why These Ingredients Work
Flour provides structure.
Baking powder & baking soda ensure the cookies rise and stay soft.
Salt balances sweetness.
Butter adds richness and tenderness.
Sugar sweetens and helps with texture.
Eggs bind and add moisture.
Lemon juice & zest deliver that signature citrus flavor.
Vanilla rounds out the flavor profile.
Powdered sugar adds a snowy, festive finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
This ensures even distribution and prevents clumps.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
This step incorporates air, giving the cookies their soft texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in eggs one at a time.
Add lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract.
The mixture should be smooth and fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture.
Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
Step 7: Cool and Dust
Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack.
Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Baking Tips
Room temperature butter is key for proper creaming.
Fresh lemons give the best flavor—avoid bottled juice.
Don’t overbake. The cookies should be soft, not crispy.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform size.
Chill dough for 30 minutes if it feels too soft.
Variations
Glazed Lemon Cookies: Drizzle with a lemon glaze instead of powdered sugar.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Add 2 tbsp poppy seeds for texture.
Holiday Twist: Mix in dried cranberries for a festive flavor.
Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in white chocolate for elegance.
Spiced Lemon Cookies: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for warmth.
Serving Ideas
Arrange on a platter with other Christmas cookies.
Pair with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or tea.
Wrap in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for gifts.
Serve at holiday brunches or cookie swaps.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Make Ahead: Dough can be refrigerated for 24 hours before baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Festive look: Powdered sugar makes them resemble snowballs.
Bright flavor: Lemon adds a refreshing twist to holiday baking.
Soft texture: Perfectly tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
Easy to make: No complicated steps or equipment needed.
Versatile: Great for parties, gifts, or cozy nights in.
Conclusion
Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. They bring a burst of citrus sunshine to the season, balancing the richness of traditional Christmas treats. With their soft texture, snowy powdered sugar finish, and refreshing flavor, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Bake a batch, share them with loved ones, and let these cookies brighten your holiday celebrations. After all, Christmas is about joy—and what better way to spread joy than with cookies that taste like happiness itself?