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Cream Cheese Lemon Sugar Cookies

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These Cream Cheese Lemon Sugar Cookies are soft and tender with a bright citrus flavor, making them perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 57 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 140

Ingredients
  

Wet Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Provides richness and helps the cookies spread slightly.
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened Adds tenderness and a subtle tang for a tender crumb.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the dough and helps create a light texture.
  • 1 large egg Binds the dough and adds structure.
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice Gives bright, natural lemon flavor.
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest Concentrated lemon oil for vibrant aroma and taste.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Rounds and deepens the flavor profile.
Dry Ingredients
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour The structure for the cookies.
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder Gives a gentle lift.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda Helps the cookies spread and brown evenly.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling) Creates a sweet, crunchy outer coating.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add 1 cup of granulated sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  4. Mix in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
  7. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Baking
  1. Scoop 1.5 tablespoon portions of dough, roll into balls, and roll each ball in the extra 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
  2. Place the cookies on the lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set.
  3. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 140kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 100mgSugar: 10g

Notes

Make sure butter and cream cheese are well softened for a smooth dough. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Use a silicone mat for even baking.

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