Save Bright and zesty, these lemon Christmas cookies are a joyful way to celebrate Hanukkah or Christmas. Soft and glazed, they fill your home with festive aroma and cheer, making every bite a sweet moment for holiday gatherings.
I first baked these cookies for a combined Hanukkah and Christmas party, and everyone loved the balance of citrus brightness and warm spices. The cookies disappeared quickly, so now they are a family staple!
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups (280 g)
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Unsalted butter, softened: 3/4 cup (170 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
- Large egg: 1
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Zest of lemons: Zest of 2 lemons
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup (120 g)
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice (for glaze): 2 or 3 tbsp
- Milk: 1 tbsp
- Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional): Blue and white
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl; set aside.
- Cream Butter & Sugar:
- Beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 or 3 minutes).
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Mix in egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; mix just until incorporated.
- Shape Dough:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10 or 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then on wire rack.
- Make Glaze:
- Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze Cookies:
- Drizzle or spread glaze over cookies once they are cool. Add sprinkles immediately, if desired.
- Set:
- Let glaze set before serving or storing cookies.
Save Sharing these lemon cookies with my relatives last Hanukkah brought smiles and laughter around the table. Baking and decorating together has become our new holiday tradition!
Required Tools
Mixing bowls are essential for combining wet and dry ingredients. An electric mixer or hand whisk helps achieve the perfect cookie dough texture, while measuring cups ensure accuracy for perfect results.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains wheat (gluten), dairy, and eggs. For allergen-free cookies, you can use plant-based butter and milk, and swap in a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutritional Information
Each festive cookie contains about 120 calories, 5 g total fat, 18 g carbohydrates, and 1 g protein, making it a sweet treat for most dietary preferences.
Save Enjoy these cookies fresh with loved ones or package them as festive gifts. The touch of citrus makes every holiday brighter!
Kitchen Questions
- → How can I enhance the lemon flavor in these cookies?
Try adding a few drops of lemon extract or extra zest for a more pronounced citrus taste in your dough.
- → Can I prepare these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake and glaze these cookies in advance. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- → Are these cookies suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely. All ingredients provided are suitable for vegetarians; simply check your ingredient labels.
- → How do I make this dessert dairy-free?
Substitute the butter and milk with plant-based versions to maintain flavor while avoiding dairy.
- → What’s the best way to apply the glaze?
Whisk glaze until smooth, then drizzle or spread generously over cooled cookies for a glossy finish.
- → Can I use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour?
Yes, replace with a gluten-free blend for a wheat-free option; check packaging for proper ratios.