Sweet Lemon Raspberry Cookies with Raspberry Glaze

Prep: 20 minCook: 15 min24 cookiesmediumItalian-Inspired
Sweet Lemon Raspberry Cookies with Raspberry Glaze

These soft, buttery cookies combine bright lemon zest and juice with sweet-tart chopped raspberries for a perfect balance of citrus and berry flavors. Each cookie is finished with a vibrant raspberry glaze that adds extra sweetness and visual appeal. Perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or whenever you want a treat that tastes like sunshine. The tender crumb and burst of fresh fruit make these cookies irresistible to both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Yield: 24 cookies
  • 2 cup all-purpose flour
    almond flour1:1gluten-freegluten-free

    use blanched almond flour for best texture

  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
    vegan butter1:1vegandairy-freedairy-free

    choose stick form for best creaming ability

    Full guide →
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
    vegan butter1:1vegandairy-freedairy-free

    choose stick form for best creaming ability

    Full guide →
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    coconut sugar1:1refined-sugar-free

    may darken cookies slightly

    Full guide →
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • ½ cup raspberries, finely chopped
    strawberries1:1flavor-change

    chop finely and adjust glaze accordingly

    Full guide →
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp raspberry puree
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven and line baking sheet with parchment paper

  2. 2

    Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl and set aside

  3. 3

    Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy

  4. 4

    Add egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until well incorporated

  5. 5

    Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring just until combined

  6. 6

    Gently fold in finely chopped raspberries

  7. 7

    Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart

  8. 8

    Bake until edges are slightly golden

  9. 9

    Cool cookies on baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack

  10. 10

    Mix powdered sugar, raspberry puree, and lemon juice until smooth for glaze

  11. 11

    Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies and sprinkle with additional lemon zest if desired

  12. 12

    Allow glaze to set before serving

Tips

Tip 1

Make sure butter is properly softened for easy creaming - it should give slightly when pressed but not be melted

Tip 2

Chop raspberries finely to prevent them from sinking and to distribute flavor evenly throughout cookies

Tip 3

Let glaze set completely before storing to prevent smudging and sticking

Good to Know

Storage

Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days

Make Ahead

Cookies can be baked 1 day ahead; add glaze just before serving

Serve With

Serve at room temperature for best texture and flavor

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overbake or cookies will be dry - remove when edges are just golden

Watch

Avoid overmixing after adding flour to prevent tough cookies

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

unsalted butter
vegan butter1:1vegandairy-freedairy-free

choose stick form for best creaming ability

Full guide →

Gluten-Free Swaps

all-purpose flour
almond flour1:1gluten-freegluten-free

use blanched almond flour for best texture

Full guide →

General Alternatives

raspberries
strawberries1:1flavor-change

chop finely and adjust glaze accordingly

Full guide →
granulated sugar
coconut sugar1:1refined-sugar-free

may darken cookies slightly

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first, then pat dry and chop. Frozen berries may add extra moisture to the dough.

How long will the glaze take to set?

The raspberry glaze typically sets in 15-20 minutes at room temperature. Avoid stacking cookies until completely set.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw completely and add fresh glaze before serving for best results.