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๐Ÿฅ˜Recipes by Nani
Dessert

Bright and Chewy Lemon Cookies

These soft, thick lemon cookies have a zesty flavor and a simple sweet glaze that everyone will love.

By Recipes By Naniยท ๐ŸŒ Americanยท July 20, 2026
Bright and Chewy Lemon Cookies
recipesbynani.com
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
12 minutes
Total
27 minutes
Serves
18

There is something so refreshing about the flavor of fresh lemons in a baked treat. These cookies are thick and chewy with just the right amount of brightness to keep you reaching for another one. They are always a favorite at my house whenever I need a little pick me up.

My top tip for this recipe is to make sure you use fresh lemon juice and zest. The flavor difference is huge compared to the bottled stuff, and it really makes the cookies pop. Be careful not to overbake them so they stay nice and soft.

๐Ÿงบ Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar for the glaze
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for the glaze

๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐ŸณInstructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

  3. 3

    Beat in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until combined.

  4. 4

    Stir in the flour, salt, and baking soda until a soft dough forms.

  5. 5

    Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space for them to spread.

  6. 6

    Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are just barely golden.

  7. 7

    Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.

  8. 8

    Whisk the powdered sugar and lemon juice together in a small bowl, then drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.

๐Ÿ’ก Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them soft. If you want a little extra lemon kick, feel free to add a tiny bit more zest directly into the glaze.

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

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