LEMON POUNDCAKE COOKIES RECIPE BY SOPHIA Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe If you’re someone who loves the

When you think of classic desserts, poundcake usually comes to mind. Its moist, dense texture and buttery flavor make it a beloved treat. Now, imagine transforming that timeless recipe into delightful cookies! Lemon poundcake cookies are a wonderful twist, combining the rich essence of poundcake with the bright, refreshing notes of lemon. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Why Lemon Poundcake Cookies?

Lemon poundcake cookies are more than just a fusion of flavors; they are a celebration of brightness and zest. The citrusy tang of lemon adds a refreshing lift, making these cookies a perfect dessert for any season, especially spring and summer. Their soft, chewy texture paired with a crisp exterior creates a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, they are easy to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect lemon poundcake cookies requires a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: For that perfect rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: To enhance the cookie’s texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: To balance the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is essential!
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For a hint of flavor.
• Zest of 1 large lemon: Infuses the cookies with lemony goodness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Enhances the lemon flavor.

For the Lemon Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar: For sweetness.
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: To create a smooth glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes and is crucial for the texture of your cookies.

5. Add Egg and Flavorings

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

7. Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. This allows room for spreading as they bake.

8. Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, which is perfect for a chewy texture.

9. Cool the Cookies

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time allows them to firm up slightly.

10. Prepare the Lemon Glaze (Optional)

While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.

11. Drizzle the Glaze

Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over them for an extra burst of flavor and sweetness.

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Poundcake Cookies

• Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, use fresh lemons rather than bottled lemon juice. The zest and juice from fresh lemons will provide a vibrant flavor that can’t be matched.
• Do Not Overbake: To maintain a soft, chewy texture, keep an eye on your cookies in the oven. They should be slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your cookies by adding white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon poundcake cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters for parties, picnics, or potlucks. Consider pairing them with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Lemon poundcake cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic dessert, bringing together the rich texture of poundcake and the refreshing zing of lemon. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a batch of these irresistible cookies that are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon with friends or as a sweet treat after dinner, these cookies will brighten any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake your way to lemony delight!