Ingredients
Butter and Sugar Mixture
- 1 lb (2 cups) salted butter, softened
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, plus additional sugar for sprinkling
- 1/4 cup lemon zest (from about 6 large lemons)
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Flavor Sugar: In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub them between your fingers for about a minute to release the lemon oils, infusing the sugar with bright citrus flavor.
- Beat Butter and Sugar (First Portion): In a large bowl or in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat 1 cube (½ cup) of softened butter with ¼ cup of the lemon-infused sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients.
- Beat Butter and Sugar (Second Portion): Add another ½ cup butter and an additional ¼ cup lemon sugar. Beat again on medium speed until well mixed, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the bowl sides.
- Continue Incorporating Butter and Sugar (Third Portion): Add the third ½ cup butter and ¼ cup lemon sugar, beating until the mixture turns white and creamy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Scrape the bowl once more.
- Final Butter and Sugar Addition: Add the last ½ cup butter and remaining ¼ cup lemon sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is white and fluffy, scraping down the bowl thoroughly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch until evenly combined.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined to form a smooth dough.
- Shape and Cut Dough: Pat or roll the dough out to ½-inch thickness on a flat surface. Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut the dough into desired shapes. Poke the tops with a fork to create a decorative pattern, then sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.
- Bake: Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 14 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden.
- Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on it for 5 minutes. Then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality salted butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Rubbing the lemon zest into the sugar helps to release essential oils, enhancing the lemon flavor.
- Do not overmix once the flour is added to avoid tough cookies.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, you can substitute part of the granulated sugar for powdered sugar infused with lemon zest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
