Glazed Lemon Drop Cookies

Quick Benefits

• Bright and Refreshing Flavor: These cookies have a perfect balance of tart lemon and sweet glaze, making them a delightful treat for citrus lovers.
• Easy to Make: With simple pantry ingredients, you can whip up a batch quickly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for tea time, a dessert platter, or gift-giving, these cookies shine in any setting.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: The combination of butter, sugar, and lemon zest ensures a tender cookie with a slightly crisp edge.

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Essential Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1⁄2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

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Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

2. Shape and Bake:

1. Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
2. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned.
3. Let them cool on a wire rack before applying the glaze.

3. Make the Glaze and Finish:

1. In a bowl, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and allow it to set completely before serving.

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Health Benefits

• Rich in Antioxidants: Lemon zest and juice contain vitamin C, which supports immune health.
• Lower in Fat: Uses a moderate amount of butter for a rich but not overly heavy treat.
• No Artificial Ingredients: Fresh lemon provides natural flavor without additives.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or lemonade for a refreshing pairing.
• These cookies make wonderful gifts! Package them in a decorative tin or clear bag tied with ribbon.
• Pair with fresh fruit like berries for a summery dessert platter.

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Creative Variations

• Almond-Lemon Twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty undertone.
• Lemon-Poppy Seed: Mix in 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for added texture and flavor.
• Glaze Alternatives: Swap lemon glaze for a light vanilla glaze or drizzle with white chocolate.

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Storage Tips

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze unglazed cookies and glaze them fresh when ready to serve.

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Pro Tips

• For the best lemon flavor, use fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice.
• Ensure butter is at room temperature for smooth blending.
• If the dough feels sticky, chill it for 15 minutes before rolling into balls.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

• Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

2. Why is my glaze too runny or too thick?

• If too thin, add more powdered sugar. If too thick, add a teaspoon of lemon juice at a time.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

• Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

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Enjoy your Glazed Lemon Drop Cookies—a bright and tangy treat perfect for any occasion!

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