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Zesty Lemon Frosted Cookies
Caroline

Zesty Lemon Frosted Cookies

Soft, buttery lemon cookies topped with a bright and creamy lemon frosting. These zesty treats are perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, making them ideal for parties, gifting, or freezing ahead.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest (for frosting)
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (for frosting)
  • 1–2 tbsp heavy cream (optional)

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • baking sheets
  • parchment paper
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • hand mixer or whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Beat the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Mix in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until fully combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
  5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, flatten slightly, and place on prepared baking sheets.
  6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
  7. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting.
  8. Beat frosting ingredients together until smooth and creamy, adding cream if needed.
  9. Frost cooled cookies and garnish if desired.

Notes

For extra lemon flavor, increase the zest slightly without adding more juice to avoid changing the dough texture. These cookies freeze well unfrosted for up to 2 months.