Before we dive deep into the delightful world of lemon crinkle cookies, let’s think about the companions that can enhance your cookie experience. These cookies are bright, zesty, and packed with flavor, and the right pairings can really elevate the experience.
One perfect choice is hot tea or iced tea. The warmth of chamomile or the refreshing zing of iced lemon tea complements these cookies beautifully, allowing their lemony notes to shine through without overpowering them.
For a fresh contrast, fresh berries are an excellent option. A bowl of juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a sweetness that balances the cookies’ tartness.
Another delightful pairing is vanilla ice cream. Imagine a warm lemon crinkle cookie served alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream—its richness contrasts beautifully with the cookies’ zesty flavors, creating a perfect match for a summer treat.
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, consider a cheese platter.
A small offering of creamy goat cheese or soft brie can add a surprisingly delightful contrast to the cookies’ sweet zing, making for a unique and sophisticated pairing. Now, let’s buckle in for a ride through the wonderful journey of making lemon crinkle cookies from scratch.
What are Lemon Crinkle Cookies?
Lemon crinkle cookies are soft, chewy cookies that have a delightful citrus flavor. Their exterior is coated in powdered sugar, giving them a crinkled look that appeals to both the eyes and the taste buds.
The recipe I’m sharing captures the essence of lemon, balancing sweetness and tartness perfectly. When you bite into one, you’ll find a burst of flavor that brightens your day.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine a sunny day at a picnic. Each bite is refreshingly zesty and sweet, with hints of buttery goodness.
The powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness, creating a beautiful contrast to the natural tartness of lemon. It evokes feelings of warmth and joy, much like savoring lemonade on a hot summer day.
Why This Recipe Works?
This lemon crinkle cookie recipe stands apart, not only for its delightful taste but also for the reasons below.
1. Simple Ingredients: This recipe utilizes common pantry ingredients. You don’t need to hunt for specialty items. Flour, sugar, butter, and eggs are likely things you already have at home.
2. Easy to Follow: The instructions are straightforward. If you’re just starting in the baking world, fear not! This recipe guides you every step of the way, making it accessible for all skill levels.
3. Flavor Dynamics: Each ingredient plays a crucial role in developing the flavor. The lemon juice and zest give a bright punch, while the ginger adds a hint of warmth that enhances the overall experience.
4. Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for every occasion, from casual evenings at home to festive gatherings. They can also be packaged nicely for gifts, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Here’s what you will need to bring these cheerful cookies to life:
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step by Step Instructions
Here’s how to create these cookies. Prepare yourself for an easy yet gratifying baking journey.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to have your oven ready. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy. This will create a lovely base full of flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sea salt, and ground ginger. Make sure these dry ingredients are well mixed. This step ensures leavening and flavor distribution.
Step 4: Gradually Combine Mixtures
Now, slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix them until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of your cookies.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors develop and keeps your cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. When the dough has chilled, use a cookie scoop or your hands to portion the dough into golf ball-sized rounds. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the centers will look slightly undercooked. This is perfect for that chewy texture.
Step 8: Cool
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up nicely.
Notes
Here are some valuable tips for making the best lemon crinkle cookies:
- Don’t Skip the Chilling: Chilling the dough can help prevent spread and create a chewier texture.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lemons for the zest and juice to ensure a vibrant flavor.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookies. They may look underdone, but they will continue to bake as they cool.
- Plenty of Powdered Sugar: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar generously to achieve that crinkle effect.
- Variations Are Fun: Feel free to add some white chocolate chips or nuts for texture variations.
How To Store The Leftovers?
To keep your lemon crinkle cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay good for about a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them.
Place unbaked dough balls in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, bake straight from the freezer, just adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Sides for Lemon Crinkle Cookies
These cookies are fantastic on their own, but when you want to elevate your treat game, consider these delightful sides:
1. Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and balances the cookie’s zestiness. You can sweeten it lightly.
2. Lemon Curd: Why not serve them with a side of lemon curd? You can spread it on top or use it as a dip. Pure bliss!
3. Fruit Salsa: A homemade fruit salsa using diced strawberries, kiwi, and mint can bring a refreshing element to your serving.
4. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with your favorite berries and a drizzle of honey. This adds a healthy dose of protein alongside those delicious cookies.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some alternatives:
1. Egg Substitutes: If you’re out of eggs, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for each egg.
2. Butter Alternatives: Coconut oil or vegetable oil can replace unsalted butter. For a vegan option, use a plant-based butter substitute.
3. Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
4. Lemon Extract Substitutes: If lemon extract is unavailable, feel free to increase the lemon zest or juice for a stronger citrus flavor.
Conclusion
Lemon crinkle cookies are a delightful treat, brightening any occasion. This recipe brings a piece of sunshine to your kitchen. Simple, quick, and delicious, they allow creativity, whether in flavors or pairings.
So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and bake these cookies for your next gathering—or simply for yourself.
After all, a little zest can make the world a sweeter place! If you need an excuse to bake, remember that each cookie is a bite-sized piece of happiness.
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Quick Delicious Meals
Lemon crinkle cookies are a treat that brings sunshine to any table. They're bright, sweet, and a little bit tangy. Every bite feels like a warm hug.
I discovered these gems on a sunny afternoon, surrounded by friends and good stories. That day, the kitchen was filled with laughter and the tantalizing scent of lemon. I had to share this magical recipe.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to have your oven ready. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
-
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy. This will create a lovely base full of flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sea salt, and ground ginger. Make sure these dry ingredients are well mixed. This step ensures leavening and flavor distribution.
Step 4: Gradually Combine Mixtures
-
Now, slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix them until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of your cookies.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
-
Cover the dough with plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors develop and keeps your cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
-
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. When the dough has chilled, use a cookie scoop or your hands to portion the dough into golf ball-sized rounds. Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
-
Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the centers will look slightly undercooked. This is perfect for that chewy texture.
Step 8: Cool
-
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up nicely.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 18
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 111kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4.1g7%
- Saturated Fat 2.3g12%
- Cholesterol 27mg9%
- Sodium 36mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 16g6%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Don’t Skip the Chilling: Chilling the dough can help prevent spread and create a chewier texture.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh lemons for the zest and juice to ensure a vibrant flavor.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookies. They may look underdone, but they will continue to bake as they cool.
- Plenty of Powdered Sugar: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar generously to achieve that crinkle effect.
- Variations Are Fun: Feel free to add some white chocolate chips or nuts for texture variations.
