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Delicious lemon frosted cookies on a plate, topped with fresh lemon zest.

Lemon Frosted Cookies

Bright and zesty cookies topped with a smooth lemon frosting, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cookies
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use high-quality butter for best results.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Regular granulated sugar is preferred.
  • 2 large eggs Use room temperature eggs for better emulsion.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour For chewier cookies, a bit of bread flour can be added.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Zest should be finely grated.
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice Fresh lemon juice is best.
For the frosting
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Sifted to avoid lumps.
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened Use room temperature butter.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Additional fresh lemon juice.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest For enhancing the flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in vanilla and lemon zest.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then mix dry ingredients alternately with lemon juice into the wet mixture.
  5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto lined sheets, ensuring enough space between each cookie.
Baking
  1. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.
  2. Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. Beat together the powdered sugar, butter, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
  2. Frost cooled cookies with the lemon frosting.
Storage
  1. Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days at room temperature or refrigerate.

Notes

Chill the dough if the kitchen is warm to prevent spreading. Adjust lemon zest to taste for a brighter flavor.