Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies

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Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies

There’s something magical about the smell of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the house—especially when those cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with zesty lemon flavor. These Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies have become a bit of a tradition in our home. I started baking them on a whim one afternoon when I had a few lemons begging to be used and a craving for something sweet but bright. It didn’t take long for them to become a family favorite.

Now, every time the grandkids are visiting—or even just coming by after school—these cookies are waiting on the counter. There’s nothing quite like seeing their faces light up when they walk in and catch that lemony-sweet scent in the air. They’re soft, buttery, and just the right amount of tangy. The sugar crust on top adds the perfect bit of crunch, making each bite a little moment of joy.

I love that they’re easy enough to make on a weeknight, but special enough to serve on holidays or as part of a dessert spread. They also freeze beautifully, so I often tuck a few away for those days when I need a quick treat or a pick-me-up with my afternoon tea. These cookies are more than just a recipe—they’re a little slice of comfort, and I hope they bring just as much warmth to your kitchen as they have to mine.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch—just note the flavor might be slightly less vibrant.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Freeze the dough balls or baked cookies. For dough, freeze unbaked balls and bake straight from frozen (just add a minute or two). For baked cookies, store in an airtight container up to 3 months.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Make sure your butter isn’t too soft or melted, and chill the dough if your kitchen is warm. Using parchment paper instead of greasing your pan also helps.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! These cookies are great for bake sales, parties, or gifting, so doubling (or even tripling!) the recipe works well.

What You Need to Make Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 ½ cups granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)

1 large egg

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 2 lemons

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Equipment:

Mixing bowls

Electric mixer or hand mixer

Baking sheets

Parchment paper

Cooling rack

Zester or fine grater

How to Make Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Whisk together dry ingredients in a medium bowl: flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Add the egg, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the butter mixture and beat until fully combined.

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.

Scoop dough into balls (about 1½ tablespoons each) and roll in granulated sugar.

Place on prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are just turning golden but the centers are still soft.

Let cool on the pan for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Best Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies

Chill the dough for 30 minutes if your kitchen is warm—this helps keep the cookies thick and chewy.

Use fresh lemon zest for the best punch of citrus flavor.

Don’t overbake—they’ll continue to set as they cool.

Add white chocolate chips for a creamy twist.

Swap lemon for lime if you want a tart change-up!

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These were a hit with my grandkids! So soft and the lemon flavor was spot on. Will definitely make again!” —Marianne T.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the texture and the sugar crunch. Next time I might add a bit more lemon zest for extra zing.” —Paul R.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect after-school treat! I made a double batch and they disappeared in minutes.” —Lisa M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Good flavor, but mine spread a bit too much. I’ll try chilling the dough next time.” —Tammy H.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Absolutely amazing! Reminds me of the cookies my mom used to make.” —Jamie K.

Printable Recipe

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