Christmas Cookies Lemon: Deliciously Bright Holiday Treats

Name: Christmas Cookies Lemon: Deliciously Bright Holiday Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Ah, the holiday season! It’s that magical time of year when the air is filled with the sweet scent of cookies baking in the oven. I can’t help but get excited about whipping up batches of Christmas cookies, and this lemon-flavored delight stands out among the classics. Trust me, the bright, zesty flavor of lemon adds a refreshing twist to your holiday cookie platter, making them a unique treat that everyone will love. The combination of a soft, buttery cookie with a tangy glaze is simply irresistible! Whether you’re baking for family gatherings or just treating yourself, these cookies will brighten up any festive occasion. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into making the best lemon Christmas cookies you’ve ever tasted!

christmas cookies lemon - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1 teaspoon baking powder, for leavening
1/2 teaspoon salt, to balance sweetness
1 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature for easy creaming
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, to sweeten the dough
1 large egg, at room temperature for better emulsification
1 tablespoon lemon zest, freshly grated for vibrant flavor
1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed for tartness
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, to enhance the overall taste
1 cup powdered sugar, for the glaze
2 tablespoons lemon juice, for the glaze, ensuring it’s smooth and tangy

How to Prepare Christmas Cookies Lemon

Preparing the Dough

First things first, let’s get that dough ready! Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial as it ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed, helping your cookies rise beautifully. Now, in another bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes, so don’t rush it! Next, add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined—be careful not to overmix, or your cookies might turn out tough. Once your dough is ready, it’s time to chill it! Wrap it in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is super important for the texture, as it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

Baking the Cookies

Once your dough has chilled, it’s time to roll it out! Lightly flour your hands and scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts of dough, rolling them into balls. Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in your preheated oven for 10–12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers still look slightly soft—that’s exactly what you want! Don’t worry if they seem a bit underbaked; they’ll firm up as they cool. As soon as they come out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Glazing the Cookies

Now, let’s make those cookies shine with a delicious glaze! In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. You want a consistency that’s thick enough to hold its shape but still drizzle-able—if it’s too thick, just add a splash more lemon juice until it’s perfect. Once your cookies are completely cool, it’s time to glaze them! I like to use a spoon to drizzle the glaze over the cookies, allowing it to pool slightly in the center for that lovely, homemade look. The bright, tangy glaze not only adds a zesty kick but also gives your cookies that festive touch! Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving, and watch how they shine on your holiday platter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: The steps are straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Delightful lemon flavor: The zesty lemon zest and juice create a bright, refreshing taste that stands out during the holiday season.
Visual appeal: The glossy lemon glaze adds an elegant touch, making these cookies a stunning addition to your festive spread.
Soft and buttery texture: Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a comforting and indulgent cookie experience.
Perfect for sharing: With 24 cookies in one batch, they’re great for holiday parties, gifting, or simply enjoying with loved ones.
Customizable: Add poppy seeds or edible glitter for a personal touch, elevating both flavor and presentation.
Versatile for any occasion: While they shine during the holidays, these cookies are delicious year-round!

Nutritional Information Section

When indulging in these delightful lemon Christmas cookies, it’s always good to know what you’re treating yourself to! Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values per cookie:

Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 60mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 2g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy these cookies as a delightful treat in moderation, and feel good about the zesty flavors they bring to your holiday celebrations!

Tips for Success

Before you dive into baking these delightful lemon Christmas cookies, here are some expert tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Trust me, a little prep and attention can make a big difference!

Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemon juice and zest. It makes a world of difference in flavor! The zest adds a vibrant aroma, while the juice gives that perfect tartness.
Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps them blend smoothly, leading to a light and fluffy dough. If you’re short on time, you can warm the egg in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.
Don’t skip the chilling: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking. If you’re in a hurry, try chilling for at least 15 minutes, but 30 minutes is ideal for the best texture.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to mix things up! Add poppy seeds for a fun crunch, or swap in a bit of almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist. You can even fold in some white chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Watch the bake time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. You want those edges to be golden, but the centers should still look slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Make it a glaze party: For a fun twist, try adding food coloring to your glaze for festive hues! You can also sprinkle some crushed nuts or edible glitter on top of the glaze for a beautiful presentation.
Storage tips: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them without glaze and apply the glaze when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to bake the most scrumptious lemon Christmas cookies that will wow your friends and family. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked up a batch of these delightful lemon Christmas cookies, let’s talk about how to elevate your dessert table even further! The zesty flavor of these cookies pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and desserts, making them a perfect complement to your holiday spread.

Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or Earl Grey tea brings out the citrusy notes in the cookies, creating a cozy afternoon treat. The floral and bergamot flavors in these teas harmonize perfectly with lemon.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing twist, serve these cookies with sparkling water infused with fresh lemon slices and mint. It’s a light, palate-cleansing option that enhances the cookie’s flavor without overshadowing it.
Lemonade: If you’re feeling a bit nostalgic, a chilled glass of homemade lemonade is a fantastic pairing! The sweet and tangy notes will resonate beautifully, making each bite of cookie even more enjoyable.
Ice Cream: Consider serving a scoop of vanilla bean or lemon sorbet alongside your cookies for an indulgent touch. The creamy texture and coolness of the ice cream balance the cookie’s sweetness and add an extra layer of flavor.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with berries, kiwi, and citrus segments not only adds color to your presentation but also complements the lemony goodness of the cookies while keeping things refreshing.
Cheesecake: For those who love a more decadent dessert, a lemon cheesecake can create a delightful citrus theme. The smooth, creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the soft, buttery cookies.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a festive and delicious spread that showcases your lemon Christmas cookies beautifully. Enjoy sharing these treats with loved ones during the holiday season!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve baked your delicious lemon Christmas cookies, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and tasty for as long as possible! Here are my go-to tips for storing and reheating these delightful treats.

To keep your cookies fresh, let them cool completely on a wire rack after baking. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft texture and zesty flavor. If you’ve got a batch that you know won’t be eaten within a week, you can freeze them to preserve that deliciousness.

To freeze, layer the cookies in an airtight container, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This way, they’ll taste just as fresh as the day you baked them!

If you prefer your cookies warm, you can reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the cookies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes, just until they’re warmed through. This will make the lemon flavor pop again and give you that comforting, fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Whether you’re enjoying them straight from the container or warming them up, these lemon Christmas cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face every time. Happy snacking!

FAQ Section

Can I substitute the butter with margarine?
Yes, you can use margarine in place of unsalted butter, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture. I recommend using a high-quality margarine for the best results.

What can I use instead of lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, you can use lime juice as an alternative for a different citrus twist. Alternatively, a splash of vinegar can work in a pinch, but you’ll want to add more zest to keep that bright flavor.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies can stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, I suggest freezing them. They can last in the freezer for about three months.

Can I add more lemon zest for a stronger flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to increase the lemon zest to enhance the flavor. Just remember that too much juice may alter the dough’s consistency, so adjust accordingly if you decide to amp up the zest.

Can I use a different type of flour?
You can experiment with different flours, like almond flour for a gluten-free option, but be aware that this may change the texture of the cookies. If you do, you might need to adjust the liquid ingredients a bit.

How can I make these cookies more festive?
For a more festive look, consider adding colorful sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the glaze. You could also use cookie cutters to shape the dough into holiday-themed designs before baking!

What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! Just sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and your hands while rolling the cookies. Chilling the dough a bit longer can also help with stickiness.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out!

What if I want to make these cookies smaller or larger?
You can definitely adjust the size of your cookies! Just keep in mind that the baking time will vary. Smaller cookies will bake faster, while larger cookies may need a few extra minutes.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.