If you’re craving a bright, citrusy treat with a soft, buttery texture, these Lemon Pound Cake Cookies are just what you need! With a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture reminiscent of classic pound cake, paired with the zing of fresh lemon juice and zest, these cookies are a refreshing dessert choice. The sweet lemon glaze drizzled on top adds the perfect finishing touch, balancing the tartness of the lemon with a smooth, sugary sweetness.
Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion, hosting a tea party, or simply looking to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to impress. They’re simple to make, with basic pantry ingredients, and they come together quickly—ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes!
What Makes These Cookies Special:
- The buttery base gives them that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is the hallmark of a good pound cake.
- Fresh lemon juice and lemon zest deliver just the right amount of tangy citrus flavor, making them a refreshing treat.
- The lemon glaze is the star, adding a sweet and zesty layer of flavor that takes the cookies to the next level.
Servings and Timing:
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 12-14 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Instructions:
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Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
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Scoop and Bake:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should still be soft in the center.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Make the Glaze:
- While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top of each cookie.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the glaze to set before serving. Enjoy your bright, citrusy treats with a cup of tea or as an afternoon snack!
Variations:
- Extra Lemon Flavor: Add a few drops of lemon extract to the cookie dough or glaze for an even more intense citrus taste.
- Lemon-Poppy Seed Twist: Stir in 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds into the dough for a slight crunch and flavor contrast.
- Glaze Alternative: Swap lemon juice for milk in the glaze to create a milder, creamy sweetness that complements the cookies.
- Berry Infusion: For a fruity twist, add ½ cup of finely chopped raspberries or blueberries into the dough for a burst of flavor and color.
Tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth and easy-to-mix dough.
- Avoid Overbaking: These cookies should be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool, so make sure not to overbake them.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They’ll stay soft and fresh for several days.
- Make Ahead: You can freeze the unglazed cookies for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them out and add the glaze before serving.
These Lemon Pound Cake Cookies are a refreshing treat that’s the perfect balance of buttery richness and citrusy zing. Whether for a special occasion, a simple dessert, or a tea party, these cookies are sure to brighten up your day with their sweet and tangy flavor!