There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. As a child, my grandmother would whip up batches of buttery cookies every Sunday afternoon. We would gather around the kitchen table, eagerly awaiting the moment they emerged from the oven, golden and warm. These cookies were simple yet delightful and often adorned with a sprinkle of sugar. This recipe pays homage to those cherished memories but adds a zesty twist to elevate the classic butter cookie into a modern treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (or orange zest for a different flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Extra granulated sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
To create these delightful cookies, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cookies a tender texture.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon or orange zest. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined. The citrus zest will add a refreshing brightness that complements the rich butter flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.
Once the dough is ready, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm to create a uniform shape.
Sprinkle a pinch of granulated sugar on top of each cookie for that extra crunch and sweetness. This little touch resembles the sparkle of morning dew and adds an inviting visual appeal.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly soft, but they will firm up as they cool. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, gather your loved ones, share stories, and enjoy these buttery cookies infused with the essence of citrus. They are perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day.
These Classic Butter Cookies with a Citrus Twist are more than just a dessert; they are a reminder of the warmth of family traditions and the joy of sharing sweet moments together.