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Soft Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies

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These soft and tangy lemon cream cheese cookies are a delightful treat. With a fluffy texture, a hint of lemon zest, and a creamy glaze, they’re perfect for springtime gatherings or when you want a refreshing dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies:

  • 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
    In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
    In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
    Beat in the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Combine:
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Shape Cookies:
    Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Slightly flatten each cookie with your palm.
  7. Bake:
    Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Make the Glaze:
    In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Add lemon zest if desired.
  9. Glaze the Cookies:
    Drizzle or spread the glaze over cooled cookies. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, use Meyer lemons if available.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.