Lemon Poundcake Cookies Recipe

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Lemon Poundcake Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Poundcake Cookies are a delightful fusion of traditional poundcake and the convenience of cookies, offering the perfect balance of buttery richness and bright, zesty lemon flavor. These cookies are light, tender, and glazed with a tangy lemon topping that elevates their flavor to a refreshing treat. Popular among dessert enthusiasts, they are ideal for family gatherings, romantic tea dates, or as a thoughtful gift for loved ones. With a deep-rooted history in European baking, this modern twist creates a perfect indulgence for lemon lovers.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 1 large lemon)

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for extra softness)

For the Lemon Glaze:

1 ½ cups powdered sugar

2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

Optional: A few drops of yellow food coloring for a vibrant finish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. For extra softness, gently fold in sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, ensuring the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 3: Baking the Cookies

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Scoop the dough into small balls using a cookie scoop or tablespoon. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft.
  4. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or lemon juice for a thinner glaze.
  2. Optionally, add a few drops of yellow food coloring for a cheerful, sunny appearance.
  3. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies. Let the glaze set for 15-20 minutes before serving.

The History Behind Lemon Poundcake Cookies

Poundcake dates back to 18th-century Europe, where its name originated from the recipe’s equal “pounds” of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Over time, bakers experimented with flavors and techniques, adding lemon to bring a refreshing tang to the dense, buttery dessert. Lemon Poundcake Cookies are a modern adaptation, offering the same flavor profile in a smaller, portable form. These cookies bring the elegance of poundcake into the everyday.

Lovers of Lemon Poundcake Cookies

These cookies are a favorite among citrus lovers, tea enthusiasts, and anyone with a penchant for delicate, flavorful desserts. Perfect for romantic moments, they pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Share them with friends, family, or your significant other to spread love and joy. Their cheerful lemony aroma and taste bring smiles to all who indulge.

Conclusion

Lemon Poundcake Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of classic flavors reinvented for modern tastes.

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