Introduction: A Zesty and Easy Cookie Treat

Lemon Slice and Bake Cookies are the perfect blend of convenience and flavor, offering a delightful citrusy twist on classic shortbread cookies. With their tangy lemon zest and fresh lemon juice, these cookies are not only refreshingly bright but also incredibly easy to make. The slice-and-bake method makes them ideal for prepping ahead and storing in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with tea or a simple homemade gift, these lemon cookies are a must-try.

Ingredients: Gather Your Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Lemon Slice and Bake Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when your cookies are ready to bake.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
   • In a large bowl, mix the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be smooth, indicating that the butter has fully blended with the sugar.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
   • Mix in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until everything is well combined. The lemon zest and juice will give the dough a bright, tangy flavor, perfect for these citrus cookies.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until it forms a dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
5. Shape and Chill the Dough
   • Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape when sliced and baked.
6. Slice and Coat the Cookies
   • Once the dough is chilled, take the logs out of the fridge and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Roll each slice in granulated sugar for a sweet and crunchy coating.
7. Bake the Cookies
   • Place the cookie slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them to allow for slight spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Cool the Cookies
   • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures they maintain their shape and develop a crisp texture.

Tips and Techniques: Perfecting Your Lemon Cookies

• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon zest and juice are essential for the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it may lack the bright, fresh citrus taste needed for these cookies.
• Chill the Dough Properly: Chilling the dough for at least an hour is crucial for the slice-and-bake method. It helps the dough firm up, making it easier to slice cleanly and ensuring the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
• Storage Tips: These cookie logs can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing you to bake fresh cookies whenever you want. Alternatively, freeze the logs for up to a month and bake directly from frozen (just add a few extra minutes to the baking time).
• Variations: For a twist, try adding a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dough for a lemon-poppy seed variation. You can also experiment with lime or orange zest for different citrus flavors.
• Serving Suggestions: These cookies are perfect served with tea or as a light dessert. For a fancier presentation, dip half of each cookie in melted white chocolate and let them set before serving.

Conclusion: A Classic Cookie with a Citrus Twist

Lemon Slice and Bake Cookies are the perfect combination of simplicity and bright, zesty flavor. Their convenient slice-and-bake method makes them an easy choice for any baking enthusiast, whether you’re making them for a quick treat or prepping ahead for a party. With their crisp texture, refreshing lemony aroma, and delightful sugar coating, these cookies stand out as a versatile and delicious addition to your recipe collection. Bake a batch today and enjoy a taste of sunshine in every bite!