5 Irresistible Lemon Extract Cookie Recipes for Baking Enthusiasts

Are you a baking enthusiast with a love for citrus flavors? Lemon extract adds a delightful zesty note to an array of desserts, particularly cookies. Here, we delve into five irresistible lemon extract cookie recipes that not only tantalize the taste buds but also cater to different dietary preferences and baking levels. From simple classics to innovative creations, these recipes will guide you through making lemony delights that are sure to impress at any occasion.

Lemon Sugar Cookies

Start with this timeless favorite, which combines the simple beauty of sugar cookies with the bright flavor of lemon.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ³⁄₄ cups all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon baking powder
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon baking soda
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt
• Zest from one lemon
• Additional sugar for rolling (optional)

Instructions

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the right cookie texture.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Mix in eggs, one at a time, then incorporate the lemon and vanilla extracts.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest. Gradually blend into the wet mixture.
4. Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least one hour to help the cookies hold their shape.
5. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the dough into balls and roll in sugar if desired.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

🌟 Note: Chilling the dough helps prevent cookies from spreading too much and ensures they retain a good texture.

Glazed Lemon Shortbread Cookies

For those who appreciate a buttery base with a sweet lemon glaze, these cookies are the epitome of indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter (salted)
• ¹⁄₂ cup powdered sugar
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Make the Dough: Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, then blend in the flour, lemon extract, and zest.
2. Shape and Chill: Shape dough into logs, wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.
3. Bake: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Slice logs into ¹⁄₄-inch thick rounds and bake for 15-20 minutes.
4. Prepare Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice.
5. Glaze Cookies: Drizzle or dip cooled cookies in the glaze and allow to set.

Lemon Almond Biscotti

Biscotti are twice-baked, making them perfect for dipping in your morning coffee or tea.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ¹⁄₂ teaspoons baking powder
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt
• ³⁄₄ cup sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Cream and Mix: Beat sugar and butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in lemon extract.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: Mix flour, baking powder, and salt, then combine with wet ingredients. Fold in almonds.
3. Form the Logs: Shape dough into logs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
4. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake logs for 25-30 minutes, then cool slightly, slice, and bake again for about 15 minutes until dry.

🍋 Note: For biscotti, ensure they are fully dry to prevent crumbling when dipped.

Lemon Chocolate Chip Cookies

Combine the fresh tang of lemon with the richness of chocolate for an unexpected delight.

Ingredients

• ³⁄₄ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ³⁄₄ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon lemon extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon baking soda
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest

Instructions

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: Mix until light in color.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and lemon extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift flour, baking soda, and salt together, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
4. Mix in Chocolate Chips and Zest: Stir until evenly distributed.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Lemon Lavender Cookies

For an aromatic twist, try these cookies infused with the soothing scent of lavender.

Ingredients

• ³⁄₄ cup butter, softened
• ²⁄₃ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon dried lavender
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: Cream butter and sugar, then add lemon extract. Sift in flour, baking powder, and fold in lavender.
2. Chill: Shape into a log, wrap, and chill.
3. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice and bake for 10-12 minutes.

As we've explored these lemon extract cookie recipes, you can now indulge in an array of lemony treats. From the simplicity of sugar cookies to the sophisticated pairing of lemon with chocolate or lavender, each recipe offers a unique taste experience. These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for any event from casual gatherings to formal tea parties. Start baking, and let the zest of lemon fill your kitchen with joy and flavor!