Savor the Sweet-Tart Delights of Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies
Embark on a delightful baking adventure with these irresistible Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies, combining the perfect balance of zesty citrus and melt-in-your-mouth buttery goodness.
Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea party or seeking the perfect cookie jar filling, these Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies will transform your baking routine into a bright and cheerful experience.
From their crackly powdered sugar coating to their soft, tender centers, these cookies capture the essence of homestyle baking with a refreshing twist. Ready to create these citrus-kissed delights that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this rewarding recipe.
Mastering the Art of Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies
These Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies aren’t just another cookie recipe – they’re a celebration of texture and flavor. The combination of cream cheese and butter creates an incredibly tender crumb, while fresh lemon zest and juice infuse each bite with bright, natural citrus notes.
Here’s your guide to achieving that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and buttery goodness, complete with expert tips to ensure your Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest, most uniform dough.
- Fresh Lemon Zest: Use freshly zested lemons rather than bottled products to achieve the brightest, most authentic flavor.
- Proper Chilling: Don’t skip the chilling step – it prevents spreading and helps maintain the cookies’ signature texture.
- Even Portions: Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing, ensuring all your Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies bake evenly.
- Watch the Edges: Look for slightly golden edges while baking, as these cookies should remain soft and gooey in the center.
Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Equipment: Stand mixer or electric hand mixer, baking sheets, parchment paper
Transform your kitchen into a citrus-scented paradise with these irresistible Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar, divided
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Sweetness and Flavor: Beat in the granulated sugar until well combined. Mix in eggs one at a time, then incorporate the lemon extract and vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ½ cup powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Create the Dough: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Cover and chill for 30 minutes.
- Shape and Coat: Roll chilled dough into 2-tablespoon balls, then coat thoroughly in remaining powdered sugar.
- Bake to Perfection: Place on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake at 350°F for 11-13 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Serving Your Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies
These heavenly Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies offer the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, with a texture that’s crisp on the outside and wonderfully gooey within. Serve them slightly warm for an extra-special treat, or pack them in an airtight container to maintain their soft, chewy texture for days.