Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies – Best Ever

Best Ever Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies: A Citrusy Delight!

Brighten your day with the Best Ever Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies! These cookies are a true treat, combining the zestful punch of fresh lemon with a decadently gooey texture. Perfect for anyone looking to add a splash of sunshine to their dessert table, these cookies offer a zesty flavor and a soft, luxurious feel.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe provides a straightforward and enjoyable baking experience. Let’s dive into the details of making these delightful lemony treats that are sure to impress at any gathering or simply enhance your tea time.

Your New Favorite Lemon Treat

Crafted for lovers of all things lemon, these cookies encapsulate the essence of this vibrant citrus fruit in a rich, buttery cookie form. The process is simple, with a chilling time that ensures each cookie bakes up perfectly gooey. Here’s how to create these irresistible treats that everyone will love.

Essential Tips for Perfect Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies:

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, even mix without lumps.
2. Flavorful Zest: Use fresh lemon zest to infuse the cookies with a bright, natural lemon flavor that far surpasses any artificial alternatives.
3. Dough Consistency: Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle but also helps in achieving the ideal gooey texture once baked.
4. Perfect Powdered Sugar Coating: Roll the dough balls generously in powdered sugar before baking to create a beautiful crackled effect on the cookies’ surface.

Recipe: Best Ever Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 13 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Equipment Needed: Mixing bowls, baking sheet, parchment paper, wire rack

Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup powdered sugar, divided
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, blend the butter, cream cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. Mix in granulated sugar until creamy. Then, incorporate eggs one at a time, followed by lemon and vanilla extracts, until the mixture is fluffy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine flour, ½ cup powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing just until blended. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light.
4. Chill the Dough: Cover and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to firm.
5. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Form Cookies: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie, roll into balls, then coat each ball in the remaining powdered sugar.
7. Bake: Place dough balls on the prepared sheet, allowing space for spreading. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, until the edges just start to golden.
8. Cool: Allow cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Best Ever Lemon Gooey Butter Cookies are the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, with a texture that’s sure to please. They’re an excellent choice for any event or a simple indulgent treat at home. Enjoy the burst of lemon flavor with each bite of these soft, delightful cookies.