Are you craving a sweet treat that's both refreshing and easy to make? Look no further! These Blueberry Lemon Cookies are the perfect answer. Imagine the tangy zest of lemon perfectly complementing the juicy sweetness of blueberries, all baked into a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers, quick enough for a weeknight treat, and delicious enough to impress even the most seasoned dessert connoisseurs. Get ready to experience the ultimate summery delight!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
Make the Dough:
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for achieving a tender cookie. A stand mixer works great, but a hand mixer will do the job just as well!
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
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Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and blueberries. Gently fold everything together until the blueberries are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Bake the Cookies:
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Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. They will spread slightly as they bake.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them – ovens can vary!
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Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Blueberry Lemon Cookies:
- Room temperature ingredients: Using softened butter and room temperature eggs ensures proper mixing and a smooth cookie dough.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the dough develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Fresh blueberries are best: While frozen blueberries can be used, fresh blueberries will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the dough.
Variations:
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice) over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of lemon flavor.
- Add nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Different berries: Substitute raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of berries for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
These Blueberry Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their bright, zesty flavor and easy preparation make them a fantastic addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy!