Meyer lemon cookies
Here’s a bright and zesty addition to your cookie collection! These Meyer lemon cookies bring a welcome ray of sunshine to the winter months. They feature the unique, sweet-tart flavor of Meyer lemons that perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of tang. They bring a softer citrus note compared to regular lemons, making these cookies a delightful treat that brightens even the darkest winter days. Check out this article if you’re interested in learning more about Meyer lemons.
What makes these cookies unique is their perfect balance of textures: crisp edges that give way to tender, almost melting centers, with a subtle crunch from their sugar-dusted tops. The Meyer lemon zest works through every bite, offering hints of mandarin orange sweetness alongside that distinctive lemon brightness.
Don’t worry if you’ve never baked with Meyer lemons before. These orangey-yellow hybrids (a cross between regular lemons and mandarin oranges) are increasingly easy to find during their winter season, usually from November through March. Their natural sweetness and complex flavor make them ideal for baking – though I’ll share some substitutions if you can only find regular lemons.
They’re perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, cozy afternoon tea, or whenever you want to add a touch of citrus brightness to your day. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a simple glaze, these cookies will surely be a hit!
Ingredients
All purpose flour | 1 3/4 | Cups |
Baking powder | 1 | Teaspoons |
Baking soda | 1/4 | Teaspoons |
Cornstarch | 1 | Teaspoons |
Salt | 1 | Teaspoons |
Plant-based butter (softened) | 1/2 | Cups |
Granulated sugar | 2/3 | Cups |
Honey | 1 | Tablespoon |
Eggs | 1 | – |
Meyer lemon zest | 3 | Tablespoons |
Meyer lemon juice | 1 | Tablespoon |
Vanilla extract | 1 | Teaspoon |
Instructions
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar for approximately one minute. Then add the egg and honey, continue beating for another minute.
- Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Mix in the flour until dough forms (it’ll be on the sticky side).
- Form the dough into a large disc, and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours. It can also be frozen.
- When ready to bake, form the cookies into balls and lightly press with a pastry cutter to form the criss-cross shape.
- Lightly press each cookie into bowl of confectioners sugar.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake cookies for 13-15 minutes.
- Lightly dust with confectioners sugar