Zesty Lemon Frosted Cookies Recipe

this Recipe

I’m so thrilled you’re here because today, I’m sharing a cookie that’s an absolute burst of sunshine! 🌞 Right after taking one bite of these Zesty Lemon Frosted Cookies, you’ll understand why they’re a year-round favorite in my kitchen. Soft, chewy, and topped with a creamy lemon frosting that melts in your mouth — they’re anything but boring!!

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Overview of Recipe Content

Let’s talk lemon magic for a second — these cookies are the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, with a tender crumb that just melts when you take a bite. They’re simple enough for a weekday treat but pretty enough for parties, holidays, or even a thoughtful gift for someone who needs a little sunshine.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

• Bright and fresh flavor that’s incredibly refreshing!
• Soft and chewy texture with the dreamiest lemon frosting.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have.
• Ready in under 30 minutes, from start to frosted finish!

Description of the Taste

Imagine the first warm days of spring — that’s what these cookies taste like. The cookie itself is rich and buttery with a whisper of lemon, and the frosting? Creamy, zesty, and just sweet enough to make your taste buds dance!

Benefits of the Recipe

• Uses basic pantry staples.
• Easy enough for beginner bakers.
• Great for making ahead and freezing.
• Customizable with other citrus flavors!

Ingredients List

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (if needed for thinning)

Necessary Tools for Preparation

• Electric mixer (stand or handheld)
• Mixing bowls
• Microplane or fine grater (for zesting)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats
• Cooling racks
• Offset spatula or butter knife for frosting

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Limes or oranges instead of lemons for a different citrus twist.
• Add white chocolate chips to the dough for a sweeter bite.
• Sprinkle a little sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.
• Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make them gluten-free!

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Make Zesty Lemon Frosted Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
3. Add in the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla. Beat until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Scoop dough (about 1 tablespoon per cookie) onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The centers should still look slightly underbaked — that’s perfect!
8. Allow cookies to cool completely on racks before frosting.

To Make the Frosting:

1. Beat the softened butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
3. Add milk a teaspoon at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
4. Frost cooled cookies generously and let the frosting set for about 20 minutes.

Suggestions on What to Serve with These Cookies

• A cup of hot Earl Grey tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• A refreshing iced mint lemonade during hot summer days.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a dreamy dessert combo!

Tips for Making the Cookies

• Don’t overbake! They should look slightly soft in the center when you pull them out.
• Zest first, juice second. It’s easier to zest a whole lemon!
• If you want extra lemon punch, add a few drops of lemon extract to the frosting.

Storage Instructions

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week (let them come to room temp before serving).
• You can also freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months! Frost after thawing.

General Information

These cookies are perfect for spring and summer parties, Mother’s Day brunches, and anytime you crave a bit of citrusy joy. They travel well, look beautiful on dessert trays, and they’re truly a crowd-pleaser.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Chill the dough for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temp for about 10 minutes before scooping and baking.

Can I skip the frosting?
Of course! They’re still delicious on their own, though the frosting really takes them over the top.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. This is a great recipe for big batches!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a cookie that feels like a bright, warm hug, these Zesty Lemon Frosted Cookies are it! With their irresistible flavor, simple prep, and beautiful presentation, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen — just like they have in mine. 💛

If you love lemon desserts as much as I do, be sure to check out my other citrusy treats like Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins and Easy Lemon Bars (coming soon!). I promise, your taste buds will thank you!

Interactive Elements

If you make this recipe, I would love to see your creations!
Please leave a review and tag me on Pinterest — it truly makes my day seeing what you bake!

Nutritional Information (approximate per cookie)

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 2g

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