Glazed Lemon Cookies with Fresh Zest and Sweet Glaze
Soft, buttery cookies bursting with fresh lemon zest and topped with a simple powdered sugar glaze. These tender cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and citrusy, making them ideal for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or anytime you crave a bright, cheerful treat. The double dose of lemon zest in both the dough and glaze ensures every bite delivers vibrant citrus flavor.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup butter, room temperature
- 1 ¼ cup sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flouralmond flour1:1gluten-freegluten-free
adds gluten-free flour blend works better
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
- 2
Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy using stand mixer with paddle attachment for about 3-5 minutes
- 3
Slowly add egg, egg yolk, vanilla and lemon zest and mix on low, scraping bowl as needed
- 4
In separate large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking soda and salt
- 5
Add flour mixture to butter mixture and mix on low until dough is well-combined, do not overmix
- 6
Using spoons or small ice cream scoop, scoop 1 inch balls and place onto parchment-lined baking sheet about 3 inches apart
- 7
Flatten cookies slightly with palm of your hand
- 8
Bake for 9-11 minutes or until slightly golden on edges
- 9
Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for a couple minutes
- 10
Transfer cookies to wire rack to cool completely
- 11
Combine powdered sugar, lemon juice and lemon zest for glaze
- 12
Glaze cooled cookies
Tips
Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for proper creaming and mixing
Don't overmix the dough once flour is added to keep cookies tender
Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing to prevent melting
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
Cookie dough can be made 1 day ahead and chilled, or cookies can be baked and stored unglazed for 2 days
Serve at room temperature as dessert or with coffee and tea
Common Mistakes
Don't overbake or cookies will be hard instead of soft
Wait for cookies to cool completely before glazing to avoid melting
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, wrap dough tightly and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Let come to room temperature before scooping and baking.
What if I don't have fresh lemons for zest?
You can use 1-2 teaspoons of lemon extract instead, but fresh zest provides much better flavor and texture.
How long do glazed cookies keep?
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The glaze may soften slightly over time.