Are you craving that bright, zesty burst of sunshine that only a perfectly made Girl Scout Lemon Cookie can deliver? Well, hold onto your hats, because today, we're making those iconic treats right in our own kitchens! This recipe offers a delicious and surprisingly easy way to recreate the beloved lemon cookie, perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings and impressing friends and family. Get ready for a burst of lemony goodness that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals (with a few adjustments), or quick dinner ideas – though these are best enjoyed as a delightful dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
Instructions:
Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender crumb. Use an electric mixer for best results – it will make the process much quicker!
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 5: Stir in Lemon Juice and Zest
Gently fold in the lemon juice and lemon zest. The bright citrus flavor will really shine through!
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Slightly flatten each ball with a fork, creating a criss-cross pattern.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can enjoy your homemade Girl Scout Lemon Cookies!
Tips for the Best Lemon Cookies:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will give your cookies the most vibrant lemon flavor.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Chill the dough (optional): For even better results, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup.
Variations:
- Glazed Lemon Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle them with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Add a sprinkle: Top the cookies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before baking for extra sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 10g
This recipe offers a delightful and simple way to enjoy the deliciousness of Girl Scout Lemon Cookies from the comfort of your own home. It's a fantastic option for homemade cooking, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without sacrificing taste or ease of preparation. Enjoy baking and sharing these tasty treats!