lemon cake cookies recipe

lemon cake cookies recipe

The Best lemon cake cookies recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite lemon cake cookies recipe! This classic dessert is a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s moist, flavorful, and easy to make. I’ve been making these cookies for years, and they’re always a hit with my kids and husband.

The best part? They’re surprisingly healthy, thanks to the use of whole wheat flour and a hint of lemon zest. Whether we’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a sweet treat after dinner, these cookies are always a good idea.

I’ve experimented with different variations over the years, but this original recipe remains my go-to. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet sugar is absolute perfection. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a cookie that’s essentially a cake in disguise?

It’s the perfect treat to satisfy any sweet tooth. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is quick to whip up and can be made in advance for parties or potlucks. The dough freezes beautifully, too, so you can have it ready whenever you need it.

My kids adore helping me mix the batter and scoop out the cookies onto the baking sheet – it’s a fun family activity that creates lasting memories. And when they emerge from the oven golden brown and fragrant, oh boy – it’s pure magic! So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to indulge in some serious cookie love with me today!

I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Lemon Cake Cookies

Lemon Cake Cookies

4.7 from 1810 votes

These soft and chewy lemon cake cookies are bursting with bright citrus flavor. They have a tender, cake-like texture and are topped with a simple lemon glaze for an extra pop of sweetness.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 150 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup powdered sugar for rolling

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
3Stir with a spoon or electric mixer on low speed until a soft, cohesive dough forms, about 1 minute.
4Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
5Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated.
6Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
7Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked but still soft.
8Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.
10Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the tops using a spoon or a piping bag, then let the glaze set for about 10 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer or whisk
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Cooling rack
Small bowl for glaze

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 150 kcal🧈Total Fat: 5g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 180mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

For a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Watch Video Of How Lemon Cake Cookies Works

These lemon cake cookies are always a good idea for any occasion because they are simple to make and please a crowd. They work well for family gatherings, bake sales, or just a quiet afternoon treat.

I often make them for Easter brunch or summer picnics and they never last long. For storage, keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to five days.

To reheat, pop one in the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back that fresh baked softness. They are also delicious served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of hot tea.

These cookies are a reliable, easy recipe that always delivers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Cake Cookies

Q: What type of flour is best for this recipe?

A: I recommend using whole wheat flour for its nutty flavor and extra nutritional benefits. However, all-purpose flour will also work just fine if you prefer.

Q: Can I substitute lemon extract with lemon juice?

A: While lemon extract adds an intense citrus flavor, you can definitely use fresh lemon juice as a substitute if that’s what you have on hand.

Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?

A: When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

A: To make these cookies gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for your preferred gluten-free blend.

Q: Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

A: Chilling the dough will help the cookies retain their shape better during baking; however, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step altogether.

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