Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Lemon Cherry Cookies are a perfect balance of tangy citrus and sweet cherries. Soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, they make an excellent treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just a cozy snack, these cookies will be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dried cherries (or chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry)
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp milk (if needed for consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the dried cherries and white chocolate chips (if using).
Step 2: Chill and Bake
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes (this helps enhance the flavors and prevent spreading).
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- If the glaze is too thick, add a little milk until desired consistency is reached.
- Drizzle over cooled cookies and let set for 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Sprinkle with extra lemon zest for a vibrant citrus kick.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips & Variations
- Chewier Cookies: Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a chewier texture.
- Extra Tartness: Add more lemon zest or a pinch of citric acid.
- Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped almonds or pistachios.
Final Thoughts
These Lemon Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat with a perfect blend of tart and sweet. Soft, chewy, and drizzled with a tangy lemon glaze, they will surely brighten up your day!
Give them a try and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite! 🍋🍒
