Have you ever wondered why lemon-flavored desserts are a timeless favorite? Packed with bright, zesty flavors, lemon frosted cookies offer a delightful balance of sweet and tart that appeals to all ages. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the delightful world of Lemon Frosted Cookies, explore their unique taste, and guide you through making your own batch of these delicious treats. Let’s turn your kitchen into a haven of lemony goodness!
Ingredients Needed
To make the most delectable Lemon Frosted Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This creamy base gives the cookies a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, substitute with coconut oil.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve that perfect texture. For a lower-calorie alternative, consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together. If you need an egg-free option, blended flaxseed or applesauce can work as a replacement.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the foundation of our cookies. Whole wheat flour can be used for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds the lift necessary for that perfect fluff.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Infuses the cookies with bright citrus notes.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Adds an extra kick of flavorful aroma.
For the frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Gives the frosting that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth quality. For a healthy twist, try using powdered stevia.
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened: Creates a creamy texture. You can use a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a burst of citrus goodness.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Seamlessly ties the frosting flavor to the cookie base.
Timing
This delightful recipe requires a total of about 30 minutes of preparation and baking time:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes
In comparison, this is about 20% less time than the average cookie recipe, making it a quick and easy treat to whip up!
How to Make Lemon Frosted Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is vital for ensuring your cookies bake evenly and rise perfectly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process aerates the mixture, giving you deliciously soft cookies!
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs, followed by the lemon juice and lemon zest. The fresh ingredients will make your cookie dough aromatic and zesty!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until combined, ensuring not to overmix.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spacing is key, as these cookies will slightly expand while baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to brown. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is different!
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While the cookies are cooling, mix the powdered sugar, butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl until smooth.
Step 8: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost them with the luscious lemon frosting to finish.
Step 9: Enjoy!
Dive into your freshly baked Lemon Frosted Cookies and relish the zesty sweetness!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value for one Lemon Frosted Cookie (including frosting):
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 8g
These cookies can be enjoyed in moderation, as they are a source of quick energy from sugars and fats.
Healthier Alternatives For Lemon Frosted Cookies
If you’re looking to make these cookies a bit healthier:
- Use whole wheat flour for added nutrients.
- Substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt.
- Swap sugar for healthier sweeteners like honey or agave syrup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Lemon Frosted Cookies on a colorful plate alongside iced tea or lemonade for a picnic-perfect treat. You can also pair them with fresh fruit for a beautiful contrast in flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tougher cookies.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting warm cookies can lead to a mess. Allow them to cool completely for best results.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science! Use measuring tools for best outcomes.
Storing Tips For Lemon Frosted Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh for as long as possible:
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies and frost them as needed.
Conclusion
In summary, making Lemon Frosted Cookies is a delightful cooking adventure that yields flavorsome results everyone will love. Now that you have a step-by-step guide, why not try your hand at these cookies today? Share your culinary creation with us or explore more delicious recipes featured on our blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of flour works best for Lemon Frosted Cookies?
All-purpose flour is ideal for texture, but whole wheat flour can provide added nutrients.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based butter for the frosting.
Enjoy your baking and the delightful zest of lemon cookies!
Print
Lemon Frosted Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully zesty lemon frosted cookies that balance sweetness and tartness, perfect for all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for frosting)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, followed by the lemon juice and lemon zest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to brown.
- While the cookies are cooling, mix the powdered sugar, butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl until smooth.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the lemon frosting.
- Enjoy your freshly baked Lemon Frosted Cookies!
Notes
For healthier options, consider using whole wheat flour or replacing some butter with applesauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg