Soft & Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies

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A Lighter, Brighter Cookie Worth Baking

These Healthy Lemon Sugar Cookies are the kind of treat that actually makes you feel good — light, citrusy, and made with real lemon zest that fills your kitchen with the most amazing fragrance. They’re soft, chewy, and just sweet enough without going overboard. The perfect cookie for spring, summer, or honestly any day you need a little sunshine.

Ingredients

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1¼ cups granulated sugar, divided
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Them

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Beat butter and 1 cup sugar until pale and fluffy.
4. Mix in egg, yolk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
5. Add flour mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
6. Roll into 1½-inch balls and coat in remaining sugar.
7. Place 2 inches apart on sheet, press gently to flatten.
8. Bake 9–11 minutes — edges set, centers soft.
9. Rest 5 minutes on pan before cooling on a rack.

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Healthy Baking Notes

• Swap half the butter for Greek yogurt to cut saturated fat while keeping softness.
• Use coconut sugar for a slightly more mineral-rich sweetener.
• Add a teaspoon of chia seeds for fiber without changing flavor.
• Always use fresh lemon — the zest has essential oils that make a huge difference.

FAQs

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Replace butter with vegan butter sticks (not spread). The texture will be virtually identical.

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies usually mean the butter was too warm. Chill the dough 20 minutes if your kitchen is warm.

Can I add a glaze?

Absolutely! Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice for a beautiful, tangy glaze.