### **Ultra-Easy Lemon Cookies: A Complete Guide**
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#### **Introduction**
Ultra-easy lemon cookies are a delightful treat that combines the refreshing citrus flavor of lemons with the sweetness of a simple, buttery cookie base. These cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal preparation time. They are perfect for a quick dessert, an afternoon snack, or a special occasion when you want to impress with a fresh and tangy flavor.
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#### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Lemon-flavored cookies have long been popular across various cultures, often linked to Mediterranean and European baking traditions. The use of citrus fruits in desserts is especially prominent in countries with abundant lemon crops, such as Italy and Greece. These cookies are a modern spin on classic lemon-infused treats, offering a sweet and tart combination that has broad appeal in many parts of the world. In recent years, lemon desserts have surged in popularity, with many seeking to incorporate lighter, fresher flavors into their sweet repertoire.
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#### **Ingredients Quantity**
For a batch of approximately 20 cookies, you will need:
– **1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour**
– **1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened**
– **1/2 cup granulated sugar**
– **1 large egg**
– **1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice**
– **Zest of 1 lemon**
– **1 teaspoon baking powder**
– **1/4 teaspoon salt**
– **1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract**
*Optional:*
– **Powdered sugar (for dusting)**
– **Extra lemon zest (for a stronger lemon flavor)**
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#### **Optional Additions**
– **Lemon glaze**: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze (made from powdered sugar and lemon juice) on top for added sweetness and a glossy finish.
– **Lemon extract**: For an even stronger lemon flavor, you can use lemon extract in addition to the fresh lemon juice.
– **Chopped white chocolate or poppy seeds**: Add chopped white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast or poppy seeds for extra texture and a more refined look.
– **Herbs**: For a unique twist, consider adding a teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary to enhance the citrus notes.
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#### **Tips for Success**
1. **Room Temperature Ingredients**: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the best texture and easier mixing.
2. **Don’t Overmix**: Overworking the dough can result in dense cookies. Mix the dough until it’s just combined to keep the cookies soft and light.
3. **Chill the Dough**: If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and improves texture.
4. **Watch the Oven Time**: These cookies bake quickly. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfectly golden to overdone in a matter of minutes.
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#### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Cream together the butter and sugar** in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. You can do this by hand or with a hand mixer.
3. **Add the egg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract** to the butter mixture and beat until combined.
4. **Combine the dry ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
5. **Gradually add the dry ingredients** to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
6. **Scoop the dough**: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to form small balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. **Bake for 8-10 minutes**, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The centers may still appear soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
8. **Cool on a wire rack** before enjoying. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
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#### **Description**
These ultra-easy lemon cookies are a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The lemon zest infuses the cookies with a fresh, aromatic citrus flavor, while the butter gives them a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. They are light and tender, with just the right amount of tang to leave your taste buds craving more. The cookies’ simplicity and freshness make them an ideal companion to a cup of tea or coffee, adding a delightful citrusy twist to your day.
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#### **Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)**
– **Calories**: 90-100 kcal
– **Fat**: 5g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
– **Carbohydrates**: 11g
– **Fiber**: 0.5g
– **Sugar**: 6g
– **Protein**: 1g
– **Sodium**: 40mg
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used and the size of the cookies.)
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#### **Conclusion**
Ultra-easy lemon cookies are an absolute treat for anyone who loves the fresh and zesty flavor of lemons. They are quick to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and time. The result is a batch of soft, flavorful cookies that can be enjoyed any time of the year. With their light and refreshing taste, they are a perfect dessert for both casual snacking and special occasions.
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#### **Recommendation**
For an elevated twist, consider pairing these cookies with a refreshing herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, to complement the citrusy notes. You can also serve them as a part of a mixed cookie platter or give them away as a thoughtful homemade gift. Whatever you choose, these ultra-easy lemon cookies will add a bright, zesty touch to your culinary repertoire.
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#### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While these cookies are undoubtedly delicious, you can make them even healthier by opting for some mindful substitutions. Consider using coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and swap out the sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour for added nutrients. These small changes allow you to indulge in a lighter, yet equally satisfying, version of this beloved treat without compromising on flavor.