Frosted Lemon Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a bright and cheerful treat that’s bursting with zesty flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, this Frosted Lemon Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies combine the tangy punch of real lemon zest and extract with a luxuriously creamy frosting that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. From the first bite, you’ll notice how the soft cookie base complements the smooth, luscious frosting, creating a delightful dance of flavors and textures that makes these lemon cookies truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role, creating a simple but spectacular cookie experience. From the rich butter that adds moisture and tenderness to the bright lemon zest that delivers fresh citrus notes, each component is essential to achieving the perfect harmony in these Frosted Lemon Cookies.

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds creamy richness and keeps the cookies soft.
• 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
• 1 tsp pure lemon extract: Packs a concentrated burst of lemon flavor that brightens the cookies.
• 2 tbsp lemon zest: Freshly grated for natural citrus aroma and tang.
• 3 cups flour: The foundation that gives the cookies their shape.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Ensures the cookies rise perfectly for a light texture.
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Provides richness and a slight tanginess to the frosting.
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the ideal consistency.
• 1 cup lemon curd: Adds a vibrant citrus punch and silky finish in the frosting.

How to Make Frosted Lemon Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms, line two cookie sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. This simple setup will make your baking experience smooth and mess-free.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon extract until everything is well combined and smooth. This mixture is your flavor base and the secret to those irresistible moist cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder thoroughly. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed for perfectly risen cookies.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, beating as you go, until a soft dough forms. This step is key to achieving a balanced texture — not too dry, not too sticky.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using a large ice cream scoop, portion out the dough and roll each scoop into a ball using your hands. This method helps create uniform cookies that bake evenly.

Step 6: Prepare the Flattening Tool

Spray the bottom of a flat cup with cooking spray, such as Pam. This prevents the dough from sticking when you press the cookies.

Step 7: Flatten the Dough Balls

Press the sprayed cup into each dough ball and gently flatten it into a thick disk. This step shapes the cookies so they spread just enough during baking, retaining their soft center.

Step 8: Repeat and Prepare to Bake

Repeat the rolling and flattening process for the remaining dough balls, spacing them well on the parchment-lined sheets.

Step 9: Bake Your Cookies

Bake one tray at a time in the oven for about 11 minutes. Your kitchen will soon fill with the irresistible aroma of lemony goodness, and you’ll see the edges turn lightly golden.

Step 10: Cool and Frost

Remove the baked cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is essential to prevent your frosting from melting upon application.

Step 11: Prepare and Spread the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon extract, and lemon curd until smooth and creamy. Once your cookies are cool, generously spread the frosting on top. The luscious frosting brings everything together, making this Frosted Lemon Cookies Recipe truly shine.

How to Serve Frosted Lemon Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

To add a little something extra, sprinkle a dash of finely grated lemon zest or edible flower petals on top of the frosted cookies. The fresh zest delivers an extra punch of citrus aroma, while flower petals add a charming, colorful touch that’s perfect for special occasions.

Side Dishes

These frosted lemon cookies pair beautifully with a refreshing cup of iced tea or a delicate herbal tea like chamomile or mint. The light beverages complement the bright citrus notes without overpowering them, making for an afternoon treat that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching dessert platter, stack the cookies in a pyramid or serve them alongside small bowls of lemon curd and fresh berries. You could also package them in pretty cellophane bags tied with lemon-yellow ribbons for gifting. Presentation not only elevates the experience but also shows how much you care.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover frosted lemon cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and fresh flavor. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigeration is fine but may firm the frosting slightly.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them completely before frosting to preserve that perfect texture and flavor balance of this Frosted Lemon Cookies Recipe.

Reheating

If your cookies have cooled and lost a bit of their fresh-baked warmth, a quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave will soften them without melting the frosting. This little trick makes every bite taste freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon extract?

Lemon juice adds moisture and a fresh citrus taste but is less concentrated than extract. For this recipe, lemon extract ensures a strong lemon flavor without risking the cookie dough’s consistency.

Is cream cheese necessary in the frosting?

Cream cheese provides a tangy richness that balances the sweetness and enhances the lemon flavor. You could try buttercream alone, but it won’t have quite the same luscious texture or taste.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to help maintain structure.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon for this recipe?

Use a microplane or fine grater to zest just the yellow part of the lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Fresh zest gives the cookies their vibrant aroma.

How can I make the frosting more stable for warmer climates?

Try chilling the frosting slightly before spreading and store finished cookies in a cool place. Adding a small amount of cornstarch can also help thicken the frosting if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Frosted Lemon Cookies Recipe truly brightens up any day with its cheerful citrus flavor and heavenly texture. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these cookies never fail to impress and delight. I can’t wait for you to try them and enjoy every tangy, sweet, and buttery bite as much as I do!

Print