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Homemade Lemon Bar Cookies with a zesty lemon glaze on a wooden table

Lemon Bar Cookies

These Lemon Bar Cookies bring together the brightness of lemon with a soft, buttery texture, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 195 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cookie Dough Ingredients

  • 100 g granulated sugar adds sweetness
  • 100 g full-fat cream cheese adds creaminess
  • 100 g unsalted butter provides richness
  • 200 g granulated sugar adds sweetness
  • 1 large egg whole large egg binds ingredients
  • 1 large egg yolk large egg yolk adds richness
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract enhances flavor
  • 210 g all-purpose flour structure
  • 2 tsp baking powder leavening agent for texture
  • 1/4 tsp salt balances sweetness
  • powdered sugar for rolling (sweet coating)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest adds bright citrus flavor
  • 48 g fresh lemon juice adds tartness

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cream together the granulated sugar, cream cheese, and unsalted butter in a mixing bowl, achieving a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Add the whole large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  • Gently fold in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice into the dough.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Baking

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
  • Scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls, then roll in powdered sugar until fully coated.
  • Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until slightly golden at the edges but soft in the center.
  • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Notes

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Chilling the dough is key to maintaining the cookies' integrity.
Keyword Baking, Cookies, dessert, Lemon Bar Cookies, sweet treats