If you’re a fan of zesty, lemony goodness combined with the irresistible allure of buttery cookies, then you’re in for a treat today. Our Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe is a delightful fusion of tangy lemon flavors and the melt-in-your-mouth texture of classic butter cookies. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth with a burst of citrusy freshness. So, let’s dive into the world of lemony indulgence and discover how to make these delectable cookies.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies Recipe is for anyone who appreciates the bright and sunny taste of lemon in their desserts. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a potluck dinner, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are a fantastic choice. The recipe strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy, making it appealing to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to make, so even if you’re not a baking expert, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies with confidence.
Why It’s Great
What makes these Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies so great? Here are a few reasons:
- The Perfect Combination: These cookies bring together the richness of butter, the creaminess of cream cheese, and the zing of lemon in a harmonious blend that’s simply irresistible.
- Easy Preparation: While these cookies taste like they belong in a gourmet bakery, they’re surprisingly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy techniques or equipment.
- Versatile Treats: Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are a versatile dessert. They’re equally delightful as an afternoon snack with tea or coffee, a dessert after dinner, or a sweet addition to a brunch spread.
Now, let’s get into the details of how to make these mouthwatering Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make these Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing spoon
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack (for cooling)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Before you start, gather these 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: How to Make Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies
Now, let’s break down the steps to create these delightful cookies:
1. Creaming the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, start by creaming together the room-temperature butter, cream cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Use an electric mixer or a stand mixer for this step. Mix until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
2. Adding the Sugar and Flavors
Next, add the granulated sugar to the creamy mixture and mix until well incorporated. Then, add the eggs one at a time, followed by the lemon extract and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the batter becomes light and fluffy.
3. Combining the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ½ cup of powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the cookies to remain tender and light.
4. Chilling the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to handle and help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
5. Baking the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out 2 tablespoons of cookie dough at a time, forming each portion into a ball. Roll each dough ball in the remaining ½ cup of powdered sugar until well coated. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them to allow for spreading.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes or until they’re just set and the edges are lightly golden. Remember that slightly underbaking them will keep them soft and gooey on the inside.
6. Cooling and Serving
Once out of the oven, allow the Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies to cool on a wire rack. This step is essential to let them set properly. Once cooled, serve and enjoy the deliciousness!
