Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies Recipe

Okay, so you know how most holiday cookies are all spice and chocolate? Well, these Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies are like a bright little surprise on your cookie tray. They’re soft, fluffy, and taste like sunshine in winter!

I made a batch last week, and oh my goodness — they disappeared fast. The lemon is just enough to make you smile, but still cozy enough for Christmas. Plus, that sweet lemon glaze? Total magic.

They’re super easy too. Just mix, scoop, and bake. If you want something different but still festive, these cookies are it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Light Flavor: The combination of lemon juice and zest creates a perfectly tangy yet sweet cookie.
• Perfect for Christmas: The soft texture and festive dusting of powdered sugar make them a beautiful holiday dessert.
• Simple Ingredients: All the ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.
• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together quickly without any complicated steps.
• Great for Gifting: Pack these soft lemon cookies in gift boxes or tins for a thoughtful and homemade gift for friends and family.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this soft lemon cookie recipe, you will need the following tools:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric Mixer (Hand or Stand): This makes it easier to cream the butter and sugar, as well as mix the dough.
• Baking Sheets: For baking your cookies, preferably lined with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
• Cookie Scoop or Spoon: For portioning the dough into even balls.
• Wire Rack: To cool the cookies after baking.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these soft and chewy lemon cookies (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough, giving structure to the cookies.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: The perfect combination for achieving soft, fluffy cookies.
• Salt: A pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight crispness to the edges of the cookies.
• Eggs: Two large eggs to bind the ingredients and add richness to the dough.
• Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: The star ingredients that provide the bright, tangy lemon flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall sweetness and complements the lemon.
• Powdered Sugar: For a light dusting on top of the cookies after baking, adding a festive and finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures the baking powder and baking soda are evenly distributed throughout the flour, helping the cookies rise evenly.

2. Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial as it helps create the soft, tender texture in the cookies.

3. Add the Eggs, Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest, and Vanilla Extract

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The lemon zest will add a fragrant and fresh aroma that will make your kitchen smell amazing!

4. Gradually Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage as it can make the cookies tough.

5. Scoop the Dough

Once the dough is mixed, it will be soft and slightly sticky. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out even balls of dough. Roll each piece of dough into a ball and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give the cookies room to spread.

6. Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) while you’re preparing the dough. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The centers may still look soft, but don’t worry – they’ll firm up as they cool.

7. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once the cookies are baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cookies are fully cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar. This adds an elegant touch and makes them look extra festive!

How to Serve Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies

These soft lemon cookies are a treat on their own, but they can also be enjoyed in several fun ways:

• As a Holiday Snack: Perfect for a sweet snack during your holiday festivities or after dinner.
• With Hot Cocoa: Serve alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa or a cup of tea to balance the sweetness with a cozy drink.
• In Cookie Tins: Pack these cookies into decorative tins and gift them to friends, family, or neighbors as a holiday present.
• With Fruit: These lemon cookies pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like strawberries, raspberries, or citrus slices for an added burst of flavor.

Variations for Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies

• Lemon Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice) over the top of the cookies.
• Add Poppy Seeds: Mix in poppy seeds for a delightful crunch and a more traditional lemon-poppy seed flavor.
• Lemon and Blueberry: Add fresh or dried blueberries to the dough for a fun twist on the classic lemon flavor.
• Make Them Vegan: Use plant-based butter and substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture to create a vegan version of these soft lemon cookies.
• Lemon Sugar Coating: Roll the cookie dough balls in a mixture of sugar and lemon zest before baking for an extra zesty, crunchy exterior.

Storing Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies

• Room Temperature: Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The cookies will stay soft and fresh for several days.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully! To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s walk through the entire process of making these soft, zesty cookies.

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Baking Sheets

Before you start mixing your ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.

2. Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is important to evenly distribute the leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) throughout the flour, which will help the cookies rise and spread evenly during baking. Set the bowl aside for later.

3. Cream Together the Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or a stand mixer. Start on a low speed to avoid the sugar spilling everywhere, then increase to medium-high speed. Beat for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, which will make the cookies soft and tender.

4. Add the Eggs and Lemon Flavor

Next, add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. This will help to create a smooth, homogenous dough. Once the eggs are fully incorporated, add in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is fully combined, and the mixture has a light, lemony fragrance.

5. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients from step 2 into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. The dough will be soft, slightly sticky, and just a bit thicker than pancake batter.

6. Shape the Dough into Balls

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out dough portions and roll them into balls. Each dough ball should be about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each one. The dough will spread as it bakes, so be sure to give it enough space.

7. Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown. The centers may still look soft, but they will continue to firm up as the cookies cool. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking—remember, soft cookies need a little softness in the middle!

8. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Then, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cookies are fully cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for that extra sweet, snowy effect.

Tips for Perfect Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies

1. Use Fresh Lemons: Always opt for fresh lemons for both the juice and zest. The zest, in particular, gives the cookies a vibrant citrus flavor that bottled lemon juice can’t replicate.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: It’s important to stop mixing once the dry ingredients are incorporated to prevent the cookies from becoming dense. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to chewy or tough cookies.
3. Chill the Dough (Optional): While chilling is not required, it can help the dough firm up a little, making it easier to handle. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but if you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes to an hour, you’ll notice the dough is less sticky and will hold its shape better during baking.
4. Use a Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized cookies, I recommend using a cookie scoop or tablespoon. This helps ensure all your cookies bake at the same rate and gives them a uniform look.
5. Watch the Baking Time: Every oven bakes differently, so keep a close eye on your cookies after 8 minutes of baking. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges, but still soft in the center.

How to Decorate and Serve These Soft Lemon Cookies

Once your Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies are baked and cooled, it’s time to decorate them! Here’s how you can serve them:

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: After cooling, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar for a festive touch. The snow-like finish adds to their charm, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season.
• Serve with Tea or Hot Cocoa: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or tea, enhancing the refreshing citrus flavor with the warmth of your drink.
• Present as Gifts: Pack the cookies into gift boxes or festive tins to give away as homemade gifts. Add a ribbon and a personal note for an extra thoughtful touch.
• Cookie Tray: These cookies are a beautiful addition to any holiday cookie tray. Their soft texture and lemony brightness stand out among other rich and decadent cookies.

Storing and Freezing Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies

If you find yourself with extra cookies (or if you just want to be prepared for future cookie cravings!), here are some tips for storing and freezing your cookies.

Storing at Room Temperature:

• Room Temperature: Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you live in a warm climate, you can store them in the fridge for extra freshness.

Freezing:

• Freezing Cookies: These cookies freeze wonderfully! To freeze, place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. Once they are solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
• Freezing the Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough for later. Scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake them directly from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy freshly baked cookies—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make These Cookies Without Lemon Zest?

While lemon zest adds a bright, intense lemon flavor, you can still make these cookies without it if you don’t have any on hand. You’ll lose some of the flavor’s depth, but the cookies will still taste delicious. Just be sure to use fresh lemon juice for that essential citrusy kick.

2. Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?

I recommend sticking with unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture, but if you don’t have butter available, you can substitute with margarine. The texture of the cookies might be slightly different, but they’ll still turn out soft and tasty. Keep in mind that margarine tends to have more moisture than butter, so the cookies might spread more during baking.

3. Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?

Yes! To make these cookies gluten-free, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes a binding agent like xanthan gum or guar gum, as this will help the cookies maintain their structure and softness. Some gluten-free flour blends require an additional binding ingredient, so check the package instructions for the best results.

4. How Do I Know When These Cookies Are Done?

Since these cookies are soft, they can be tricky to judge by appearance alone. To ensure they’re properly baked, look for these signs:

• Golden Edges: The edges of the cookies should be lightly golden brown, but the center will still be soft and slightly puffy.
• Firm to the Touch: Gently press the center of a cookie with your finger. If it bounces back without leaving an indentation, the cookie is done.
• Cool on the Sheet: Remember that the cookies will continue to cook a little as they cool on the baking sheet, so don’t worry if they seem a bit underdone when you take them out of the oven. The key is to not overbake them!

5. Can I Add Other Flavors to These Cookies?

Absolutely! If you want to customize the flavor of these cookies, here are a few variations you could try:

• Vanilla and Almond Extract: Add 1/2 tsp of almond extract in addition to the vanilla for a slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon.
• Lemon and Lavender: Add a tablespoon of dried lavender buds to the dough for a fragrant floral twist.
• Cranberries or White Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dried cranberries or white chocolate chips to give the cookies a festive touch, perfect for the holidays.

6. Can I Make These Cookies in Advance?

Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. Here’s how:

• Cookie Dough: You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 2-3 days before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months (as mentioned earlier).
• Baked Cookies: Baked cookies will stay fresh for about 5 days at room temperature, stored in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

7. How Can I Make These Cookies More Festive for Christmas?

• Add Sprinkles: After dusting the cookies with powdered sugar, you can sprinkle a little red and green sugar crystals on top for a fun, festive look.
• Use Holiday Shaped Cutters: If you’re feeling creative, you can roll out the dough and cut it into holiday-themed shapes such as stars, trees, or snowflakes.
• Lemon Glaze: Instead of powdered sugar, drizzle a lemon glaze (made with powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a bit of milk) on top of the cookies for a shiny, sweet finish.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition	Per Serving (1 Cookie)
Calories	170
Total Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	30mg
Sodium	60mg
Carbohydrates	26g
Fiber	1g
Sugars	14g
Protein	2

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love These Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies

Christmas is a time for bringing people together, and nothing fosters that warm holiday spirit better than sharing a plate of freshly baked cookies. These Christmas Soft Lemon Cookies are not only a delightful treat with a bright lemon flavor, but they also have a soft, tender texture that makes them irresistible.

The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates the perfect balance of tart and sweet, while the dusting of powdered sugar gives them that snowy, wintery touch that’s so fitting for the holidays. These cookies are easy enough to whip up on a whim, yet they have a festive charm that will make everyone feel special. Whether you’re serving them at a Christmas party, packing them into gift boxes for loved ones, or just enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s evening, they’ll quickly become a holiday tradition in your home.

Why These Cookies Will Be a Hit

• Light and Refreshing: Their soft texture and lemony flavor make them a refreshing change from the heavier, richer cookies often associated with the holidays.
• Simple to Make: This recipe is beginner-friendly, requiring only basic ingredients and minimal steps, making it perfect for first-time bakers.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with additional flavors, mix-ins, and decorations to make them uniquely yours.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Whether you make the dough ahead of time or freeze the cookies, you can easily prepare these in advance, saving you time during the busy holiday season.