Introduction to Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Herbs & Flour
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I adore these Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Herbs & Flour. They’re not just a treat; they’re a burst of sunshine on a plate! Soft, chewy, and coated in powdered sugar, these cookies are perfect for brightening up any day. Whether you need a quick dessert for a family gathering or a sweet surprise for your loved ones, this recipe is your go-to. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Herbs & Flour
These Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. They come together in just 45 minutes, making them a perfect choice for busy days. The bright lemon flavor dances on your taste buds, while the soft, chewy texture keeps you coming back for more. Plus, the powdered sugar coating adds a touch of elegance, making them ideal for any occasion. You’ll love how easy they are to whip up!
Ingredients for Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Herbs & Flour
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Lemon Crinkle Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookies, providing structure and chewiness.
- Baking powder: This little leavening agent helps your cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds richness and a tender texture to the cookies.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and contributes to that lovely crinkle effect.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together while adding moisture.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed juice brings a bright, zesty flavor that’s essential for that lemony punch.
- Lemon zest: The aromatic outer peel of the lemon adds an extra layer of citrusy goodness.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors, making the cookies even more delicious.
- Powdered sugar: This is for coating the cookies, giving them that signature snowy appearance and a sweet finish.
For those who want to experiment, consider adding more lemon zest for a stronger flavor or swapping in a gluten-free flour blend if needed. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Herbs & Flour
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, your future self will thank you!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential for evenly distributing the leavening agent. It helps your cookies rise beautifully, creating that soft, chewy texture we all love. Plus, it’s a great way to get your arm moving!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process is key for developing a rich flavor and a tender texture. The air you incorporate here will make your cookies rise and create that delightful crinkle. It’s like magic!
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Each of these ingredients plays a vital role. The egg binds everything together, while the lemon juice and zest provide that zesty punch. The vanilla adds warmth, making your cookies irresistible!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we definitely want soft, chewy Lemon Crinkle Cookies. It’s all about that perfect balance!
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is important for texture and makes the dough easier to handle. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, resulting in those lovely crinkles. Plus, it gives you a moment to sip some tea!
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. This step is where the fun begins! Rolling the dough helps create a uniform shape, ensuring even baking. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen!
Step 8: Coat in Powdered Sugar
Roll each dough ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. This not only gives your cookies that signature snowy appearance but also adds a sweet finish. It’s like dressing them up for a party! Who doesn’t love a little extra sweetness?
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are crinkled. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect golden edge without overbaking!
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time builds anticipation! Once they’re cool enough to handle, grab one and enjoy the delightful burst of lemony goodness. You’ve earned it!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor; bottled juice can’t compare!
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s key for perfect texture.
- For a fun twist, try adding white chocolate chips or nuts.
- Keep an eye on baking time; every oven is different.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet works well; a silicone mat is a great alternative.
- Parchment paper: Use this for easy cleanup; aluminum foil can be a substitute.
- Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can also use a large pot.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing; a fork can do the job in a pinch.
- Spoon or cookie scoop: For shaping dough; your hands work too!
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
- Herb-Infused: Add a teaspoon of fresh rosemary or thyme to the dough for a unique herbal twist.
- Berry Burst: Fold in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity surprise in every bite.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgent treat.
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Lemon Crinkle Cookies with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combo.
- For a lovely presentation, arrange cookies on a colorful platter and garnish with lemon slices.
- These cookies also make a great addition to a picnic or potluck spread!
FAQs about Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Herbs & Flour
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice is convenient, fresh lemon juice gives a brighter, more vibrant flavor. I highly recommend using fresh lemons for the best results!
How do I store Lemon Crinkle Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper!
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and chill it in the refrigerator. Just roll and bake them when you’re ready for a fresh batch of Lemon Crinkle Cookies!
What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm dough. Make sure to chill the dough adequately before baking. Also, check that your butter is softened, not melted, for the right texture.
Can I add other flavors to these cookies?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding different extracts, like almond or coconut, or even mix in some chocolate chips for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless!
Final Thoughts
Making Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Herbs & Flour is more than just baking; it’s about creating joyful moments in the kitchen. The delightful aroma of lemon fills your home, instantly lifting spirits. Each bite offers a soft, chewy texture that dances on your palate, reminding you of sunny days. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them alone with a cup of tea, these cookies bring a smile to your face. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of baking. Trust me, these cookies will become a cherished favorite!
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Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Herbs & Flour to Brighten Your Day!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Crinkle Cookies are soft, chewy cookies with a delightful lemon flavor and a powdered sugar coating that gives them a beautiful crinkled appearance.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are crinkled.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon zest.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg