Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Soft, Bright & Irresistibly Addictive

There’s something magical about a cookie that’s both sweet and tangy, soft yet slightly chewy, and wrapped in a snowy coat of powdered sugar. These Lemon Crinkle Cookies offer all that and more. With their vibrant citrus flavor, sunny color, and signature crinkled top, they’re the irresistible treat that brightens any day. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, spring gathering, or simply craving something refreshing, these cookies deliver pure joy in every bite.

What makes them truly special is the perfect balance of flavors: the bold punch of fresh lemon, the comforting sweetness of granulated sugar, and the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture created by butter and flour working together. These cookies don’t just taste incredible—they look stunning, smell heavenly, and leave everyone reaching for “just one more.”

Ingredients & Their Roles

• 1 tbsp Lemon Zest – Packs powerful, fragrant citrus oils for a brighter lemon flavor.
• 2 Eggs – Bind the dough and add moisture for a soft, chewy texture.
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice – Adds bold tartness and enhances the fresh lemon taste.
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and keeps the cookies tender, not dense.
• 1 tsp Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and form their signature crinkles.
• 1 cup Confectioner’s Sugar – Creates the iconic white crinkle coating.
• Yellow Food Coloring (optional) – Enhances the sunny, bright lemon appearance.
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps create soft centers.
• 1/2 tsp Salt – Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract – Adds warm depth and rounds out the lemon notes.
• 1/2 cup Butter, softened – Creates richness and provides that tender-crumble texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and granulated sugar.
   In a large bowl, beat softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This step adds air for a softer cookie.
3. Add eggs, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
   Mix until fully combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled—this is normal with citrus and butter.
4. Combine dry ingredients.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix wet and dry ingredients.
   Add the dry mixture into the wet mixture and stir until a soft dough forms. Add a drop of yellow food coloring if desired.
6. Chill the dough.
   Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. This helps prevent overspreading and improves the crinkle effect.
7. Shape & roll.
   Scoop 1-tablespoon portions, roll into balls, and generously coat each one in confectioner’s sugar.
8. Bake.
   Arrange on baking sheets and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are cracked and the edges are set.
9. Cool.
   Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

• Bright citrus flavor from real lemon zest and juice.
• Soft & chewy interiors with beautifully crinkled tops.
• Simple ingredients that come together quickly.
• Perfectly sweet with a refreshing tart finish.

Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Crinkle Cookies

• Use fresh lemon zest—it’s the secret to the best flavor.
• Chill the dough to keep the cookies thick and soft.
• Roll heavily in powdered sugar so the crinkles pop.
• Don’t overbake—they should look slightly underdone in the center.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with hot tea, iced tea, or fresh lemonade.
• Pair with fresh berries for a light dessert plate.
• Enjoy with vanilla ice cream for a bright, refreshing treat.
• Package in pretty boxes for gifts or holiday cookie trays.