Just like classic chocolate crinkle cookies, these Lemon Crinkle Cookies are irresistibly soft, chewy, and coated in a sweet layer of confectioners’ sugar. With an ultra-bright citrus flavor from real fresh lemon juice and zest, these cookies practically melt in your mouth. No artificial flavors or extracts—just pure, natural lemon goodness! Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday treat, a refreshing summer cookie, or a simple weekend bake, this easy lemon crinkle cookie recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Incredible Lemon Flavor – Made with fresh lemon juice and zest for an authentic citrus punch. ✅ Soft & Chewy – Thanks to cornstarch and the perfect balance of ingredients, these cookies stay wonderfully soft. ✅ Beautiful Crinkle Effect – Rolling the dough in powdered sugar before baking gives them their signature crinkled look. ✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly. ✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for cookie swaps, holiday platters, or an everyday sweet treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make the best lemon crinkle cookies:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch – Ensures a soft, chewy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies puff up and form those signature crinkles.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and structure.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the dough together.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice – For maximum citrus flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Intensifies the lemon taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar – For rolling the dough and creating the crinkle effect.
How to Make Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Follow these simple steps for the best lemon crinkle cookies:
1️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2️⃣ Cream Butter & Sugar: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
3️⃣ Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4️⃣ Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
5️⃣ Chill the Dough: Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 3 hours (or overnight). Chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavor.
6️⃣ Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Place the confectioners’ sugar in a small bowl.
7️⃣ Roll & Coat: Scoop the chilled dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls and roll each ball generously in powdered sugar. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
8️⃣ Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the tops appear crinkled. The centers may look slightly underbaked but will firm up as they cool.
9️⃣ Cool & Enjoy: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Crinkle Cookies
✔ Chill the Dough: This step is non-negotiable—chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much and enhances their flavor. ✔ Roll Twice for Extra Crinkles: Roll the dough in granulated sugar first, then confectioners’ sugar for a crispier exterior and better crinkle effect. ✔ Use Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest: Bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same fresh, bright flavor. ✔ Don’t Overbake: These cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so take them out when the centers are still slightly soft.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
📌 Storing Baked Cookies: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. 📌 Freezing Dough: Roll dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let thaw in the fridge for 1 hour before rolling in sugar and baking. 📌 Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Other Citrus Flavors?
Absolutely! Try this recipe with lime, orange, or grapefruit for a fun twist. If you love citrus, you may also enjoy Lemon Shortbread Cookies, Lemon Thumbprint Cookies, or Coconut Lime Cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Why didn’t my cookies crinkle?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking, and don’t skip the chilling time. Also, rolling in a thick layer of powdered sugar helps achieve the best crinkle effect.
❓ Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular flour.
❓ Why are my cookies flat?
This usually happens if the dough wasn’t chilled long enough. Make sure your dough is cold before rolling and baking.
Final Thoughts
🌟 Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and rate it! We’d love to hear your thoughts! 😊
Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a summer treat, or just a sweet lemony indulgence, these Lemon Crinkle Cookies are guaranteed to impress! Their bright citrus flavor, chewy texture, and crinkly powdered sugar coating make them a standout on any cookie platter. Try them today, and let us know how they turn out!