Description
Soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, these Zesty Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies are a bright and irresistible treat! The cream cheese makes them extra tender and moist, while the lemon zest and juice give them a bold, refreshing taste. Perfect for spring, summer, or any time you want a cookie that’s sweet, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now for easy, bakery-style cookie recipes and sweet treats you’ll love baking at home.
Ingredients
-
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
-
4 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
1 large egg
-
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
-
1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
2¼ cups all-purpose flour
-
2 tsp baking powder
-
¼ tsp salt
-
½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Optional Add-ins:
-
Extra lemon zest for more zing
-
White chocolate chips for a sweeter twist
-
A drizzle of lemon glaze after baking
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
The dough will be slightly sticky.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them in powdered sugar to coat.
Place on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly crinkled.
The centers should still look soft.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use Fresh Lemon – Fresh juice and zest give the best flavor.
Don’t Overbake – The cookies should be just set to stay soft and tender.
Roll in Plenty of Powdered Sugar – For a pretty, crackly finish.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Helps everything blend smoothly.
Double the Batch – These cookies disappear fast!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Cuisine: American / Dessert