These Glazed Lemon Cookies are soft in the center, lightly golden around the edges, and packed with fresh lemon flavor. The cookie dough gets its citrus flavor from plenty of lemon zest, while the glaze is made with fresh lemon juice for a bright, tart finish.
The texture is tender and buttery rather than cakey, and the thick glaze sets into a smooth layer on top. They are simple enough for everyday baking but pretty enough for spring gatherings, showers, cookie trays, or holiday boxes.
Why You Will Love These Glazed Lemon Cookies
These cookies are all about fresh lemon flavor without relying on bottled juice or artificial color. The zest perfumes the buttery dough, while the juice in the glaze brings the sharp citrus flavor right to the surface. They are also easy to make ahead. Once the glaze sets, the cookies store well at room temperature and stay tender for several days.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Cookies
- 2¼ cups (286g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest, from about 3 medium lemons
- 1 large egg, at cool room temperature
For the Lemon Glaze
- 1½ cups (189g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2–4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Additional lemon zest, for garnish if desired