Lemon Raspberry Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s bursting with bright citrus and fruity flavors, these Lemon Raspberry Cookies are the answer. Perfectly soft, tangy, and lightly sweet, these cookies are topped with a luscious raspberry glaze, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and easy to make.
This recipe is based on an eggless sugar cookie recipe, making it perfect for those with egg allergies or anyone seeking a simpler cookie dough. The combination of fresh or frozen raspberries with zesty lemon creates a delightful balance of tart and sweet, ensuring these cookies are a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a party or simply indulging in an afternoon treat, these raspberry lemon cookies are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (if using frozen, do not thaw)
For the Raspberry Glaze:
- 1/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries, mashed and strained to remove seeds
- 1 cup (125g) powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mixing until combined.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Raspberries: Gently fold the fresh or frozen raspberries into the dough. If they break apart, that’s okay—they’ll add lovely swirls of color and flavor to the cookies.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Refrigerate: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Form the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Raspberry Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the strained raspberry puree with powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more lemon juice for a thinner glaze.
- Glaze the Cookies: Drizzle or spread the raspberry glaze over the cooled cookies. For extra decoration, sprinkle with additional lemon zest.
Tips for Success
- Use Cold Butter: For an even softer cookie, use slightly cold butter rather than fully softened butter to help the cookies hold their shape.
- Fresh or Frozen Raspberries: If using frozen raspberries, fold them into the dough directly from the freezer to prevent excess moisture.
- Chill for Best Results: Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Keep the Glaze Smooth: Strain the raspberry puree to remove seeds for a silky glaze.
Variations
- Add White Chocolate Chips: Mix in 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Use Lime Instead of Lemon: Swap out the lemon juice and zest for lime for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Raspberry Almond Cookies: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for a nutty twist.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to make these cookies completely vegan.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Egg-Free Recipe: This eggless sugar cookie recipe is great for those with dietary restrictions.
- Bright and Refreshing: The combination of zesty lemon and sweet raspberries creates a refreshing flavor that’s perfect for spring or summer.
- Easy to Make: The simple dough and quick glaze make these cookies accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Stunning Presentation: The natural swirls of raspberry and the vibrant glaze make these cookies look as good as they taste.
Serving Suggestions
- With Tea or Coffee: These cookies are perfect with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
- At Parties or Picnics: Their bright flavors and beautiful glaze make them a great addition to dessert tables or outdoor gatherings.
- Gift-Worthy: Pack these cookies in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
