Lemon Glazed Christmas Cookies
Introduction
Celebrate the season with a burst of citrus! These Lemon Glazed Christmas Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Soft, tangy, and oh-so-delicious, they will undoubtedly become a favorite among family and friends. Want more recipes like this? Subscribe to receive delightful recipes directly to your inbox.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about the refreshing taste of lemon during the festive season. These cookies are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also offer a delightful twist to traditional holiday cookies. Perfect for young and old alike, they’ll bring a sense of joy and warmth to any cookie platter.
Ingredients
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Hand mixer or stand mixer
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Wire rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
For a different flavor, try substituting lime or orange zest for a citrusy change. Add a sprinkle of poppy seeds or some chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
7. For the glaze, mix powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
8. Once cool, glaze each cookie and let it set before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a fantastic addition to a holiday dessert spread.
Pro Tips for Success
Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. Don’t over-bake; they should be slightly soft when removed from the oven.
Storing and Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For extended freshness, you can also freeze them, just be sure to glaze them after thawing.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
Q: How can I make the glaze thicker?
A: Adjust the consistency by adding less lemon juice or more powdered sugar.
Conclusion
These Lemon Glazed Christmas Cookies are sure to impress with their zesty flavor and simple preparation. Perfect for any occasion, they add a special touch to the holiday season. We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos or tag us on Instagram or Pinterest.
Nutritional Information
Approximate per cookie: 110 calories, 4.5g fat, 16g carbs, 1g protein.
