Craving that perfect lemon sugar cookie? These Soft & Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies are packed with fresh citrus flavor, featuring a chewy center and lightly crisp edges. This is a must-try lemon sugar cookie recipe that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
✨ Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups (340g) all-purpose flour
- baking soda
- baking powder
- salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
For Rolling:
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- (Optional) Extra lemon zest mixed in for extra citrus sparkle
🍪 Instructions: How to Make Soft & Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies
- Preheat the Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. - Zest & Scent the Sugar
In a bowl, rub together granulated sugar and lemon zest until fragrant. This step deepens the citrus aroma. - Cream Butter & Lemon Sugar
Add softened butter to the lemon sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). - Add Eggs & Flavorings
Beat in the egg, followed by the egg yolk. Add lemon juice and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. - Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. - Mix the Dough
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix. - Chill the Dough (Optional, but Recommended)
Chill for 30–60 minutes to make the dough easier to handle and help cookies stay thick and chewy. - Shape & Coat
Scoop dough into 1 ½ tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each ball in sugar (and optional lemon zest). Place on baking sheet about 2 inches apart. - Bake
Bake for 9–11 minutes, just until the edges are set and centers look slightly underdone. The cookies will finish setting as they cool. - Cool & Enjoy
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
💡 Tips for the Best Chewy Lemon Cookies
- Want a bolder citrus flavor? Add ½ teaspoon lemon extract.
- For a perfect chewy texture, don’t overbake — soft centers are key.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer freshness (up to 3 months).
🍪 Why You’ll Love This Lemon Sugar Cookie Recipe
These cookies have it all: a soft, chewy bite, bright lemon flavor, and that nostalgic sugar cookie texture. Whether you’re baking for a sunny brunch, a gift box, or your own sweet cravings, this recipe is a lemon-lover’s dream.