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Roll-Out Lemon Sugar Cookies

lakshman
These Roll-Out Lemon Sugar Cookies are buttery, crisp, and lightly flavored with fresh lemon zest. They hold their shape perfectly, making them ideal for decorating with royal icing. A must-try for any occasion!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp baking powder

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  • Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

  • Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Cookies

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thickness.
  • Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes, then transfer cookies to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

  • Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
  • Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is essential for preventing spreading and achieving crisp edges.
  • For extra lemon flavor, add ½ teaspoon of lemon extract in addition to the zest.