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Soft Lemon Crinkle Cookies

soft lemon crinkle cookies - featured image

Soft lemon crinkle cookies with a delicate powdered sugar coating that creates a tender, pillowy texture and a bright citrus flavor. Perfect for gifting, parties, or a cozy treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest (from about 2 medium lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar for coating

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  5. Mix in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fragrant and combined.
  6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a spatula, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be soft but firm enough to scoop. Chill for 15 minutes if too sticky.
  7. Pour powdered sugar into a shallow bowl. Scoop dough balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and roll generously in powdered sugar, pressing slightly to coat fully.
  8. Place dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are set and tops are cracked but still soft.
  10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

For a more pronounced crinkle effect, coat the dough balls twice in powdered sugar before baking. Avoid overbaking to keep cookies soft. Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best flavor. Dough can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking; let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before scooping.

Nutrition

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