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These tangy cream cheese lemon cookies combine bright citrus flavor with a soft, tender texture for an irresistible treat. The cream cheese creates a rich base while fresh lemon zest and juice provide the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
When I first developed this recipe, I kept adjusting until achieving that perfect chewy center with slightly crisp edges. The cream cheese makes all the difference in creating that ideal texture.
Essential Ingredients Guide
- Cream cheese: Full-fat, room temperature
- Lemons: Fresh provide best flavor
- Butter: Unsalted, softened completely
- Cornstarch: Creates tender crumb
- Flour: Measure carefully for right texture
Step-by-Step Method
Mix the Dough
- Cream butter and cheese thoroughly
- Add sugar gradually
- Mix in eggs and flavoring
- Add dry ingredients last
- Chill properly
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Shape and Bake
- Roll uniform sizes
- Space evenly on sheets
- Watch edges for doneness
- Cool completely before glazing
- Add zest while glaze is wet
Perfect the Glaze
- Sift sugar for smoothness
- Add liquid gradually
- Adjust consistency carefully
- Drizzle with control
- Let set completely
My secret is adding extra zest to both dough and glaze - it really amplifies that bright lemon flavor everyone loves.
Storage Solutions
Store in airtight container between wax paper layers. Freeze unglazed cookies for up to three months.
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After countless batches, I've learned that taking time with the creaming process and using the freshest lemons creates cookies that taste like sunshine in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do I need to chill the dough?
- Chilling prevents cookies from spreading too much during baking and helps develop better flavor. Don't skip this step!
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes! Freeze shaped dough balls for up to 3 months, or store baked cookies in an airtight container for 3 days.
- → How do I know when they're done baking?
- Edges should be lightly golden but centers still soft. They'll firm up as they cool.
- → Can I use bottled lemon juice?
- Fresh lemon juice and zest give the best flavor. Bottled juice works but won't taste as bright and fresh.
- → Why add cornstarch to the dough?
- Cornstarch makes the cookies extra soft and tender, giving them that perfect chewy texture.