Lemon Tree Cookies Brighten (Ready-to-Print Version)
Soft lemon sugar cookies shaped like trees, topped with zesty icing and festive details for holiday joy.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 -
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 -
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
04 -
2 cups powdered sugar
05 -
Coarse sugar for decoration (optional)
→ Wet Ingredients
06 -
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
07 -
1 cup granulated sugar
08 -
1 large egg
09 -
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
10 -
1 tablespoon lemon zest
11 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice
12 -
3 to 4 tablespoons lemon juice (for icing)
13 -
1 teaspoon lemon zest (for icing)
14 -
Yellow gel food coloring
15 -
White icing for drizzling (optional)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 -
Beat the softened butter together with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
02 -
Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
03 -
Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
04 -
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
05 -
Wrap the dough and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up for easier handling and cleaner edges.
06 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Roll the chilled dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness and cut into tree shapes using a cookie cutter.
07 -
Arrange the cutouts on a baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Remove and allow to cool completely.
08 -
Combine powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a bowl; mix until smooth and adjust consistency if needed. Tint with yellow gel food coloring to desired shade.
09 -
Spread lemon icing over cooled cookies, drizzle with white icing if desired, and sprinkle coarse sugar for a festive finish.
# Handy Tips:
01 -
Chilling the dough ensures sharper edges and easier handling when cutting shapes.