Lemon Drop Cookies

Lemon Drop Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. These cookies are bursting with fresh lemon flavor, thanks to the lemon zest and lemon curd that add a bright, citrusy kick. With their soft and chewy texture, they are ideal for snacking or serving at gatherings. Let’s dive into what makes these cookies so special and how you can make them in your own kitchen.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets these Lemon Drop Cookies apart is the combination of fresh lemon zest and a dollop of lemon curd in each cookie. The zest enhances the flavor profile, making each bite refreshing and vibrant. The use of unsalted butter in the dough creates a rich base that complements the citrus beautifully. Topping the cookies with turbinado sugar gives them a delightful crunch and a hint of caramel flavor, making them incredibly irresistible.

What to Buy

To make these delightful Lemon Drop Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – This adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a hint of warmth and flavor.
• Zest of one lemon – Freshly grated for the best flavor.
• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of the cookie dough.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/4 cup lemon curd – Adds a gooey, tangy center to the cookies.
• 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar – For sprinkling on top for added texture.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools:

• Mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
• Electric mixer – To cream the butter and sugar together smoothly.
• Baking sheets – Where your cookies will bake.
• Parchment paper – For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To measure your ingredients accurately.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon – For portioning out the dough evenly.
• Wire rack – For cooling the cookies after baking.

Lemon Drop Cookies Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before you begin mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the 1 1/2 cups of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

Add in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the zest of one lemon. Mix until combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Incorporate Lemon Curd

Gently fold in the 1/4 cup of lemon curd until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The curd will create a deliciously gooey center in your cookies.

Step 6: Portion the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie for spreading.

Step 7: Sprinkle Sugar

Before baking, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of turbinado sugar over the top of each cookie for a crunchy finish.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly underbaked, but they will set as they cool.

Step 9: Cool

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

These Lemon Drop Cookies can be customized for different seasons:

• Spring – Add poppy seeds for a lovely crunch and floral notes.
• Summer – Mix in fresh berries such as blueberries or raspberries for a bright twist.
• Fall – Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Winter – Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for added sweetness.

Mistakes That Ruin Lemon Drop Cookies

Even seasoned bakers can sometimes run into issues. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Using cold butter – This can lead to dense cookies. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature.
• Overmixing the dough – This can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined.
• Skipping the zest – The zest is crucial for that vibrant lemon flavor; don’t omit it!
• Baking at the wrong temperature – Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary to ensure perfect baking.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your Lemon Drop Cookies fresh:

• Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerator – They can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge, though the texture may change.
• Freezer – Freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

While you can use salted butter, it’s best to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in your cookies. If you do use salted butter, omit the kosher salt from the recipe.

What can I substitute for lemon curd?

If you don’t have lemon curd, you can use a thick lemon frosting or even a dollop of lemon yogurt for a similar tartness and creaminess.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for a lightly golden edge and a soft center. The cookies will continue to cook slightly as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I add other flavors to the cookies?

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding almond extract, or even mix in white chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the lemon flavor.

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Save & Share

If you love this recipe, don’t forget to save it to your favorites and share it with friends and family! These Lemon Drop Cookies are sure to brighten anyone’s day, and we can’t wait for you to try them.

With their bright flavor and delightful texture, Lemon Drop Cookies are a treat that everyone will adore. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just enjoying a sweet moment at home, these cookies are the perfect choice. Happy baking!