There’s something special about the delightful combination of tangy lemons and crunchy poppy seeds that creates an irresistibly tasty treat. Our Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies recipe is a perfect blend of zesty citrus flavor and nutty crunch, making it a delightful addition to any gathering or a cozy afternoon snack. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with refreshing lemon goodness that will brighten up your day with every bite.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Zest of 2 lemons
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated into the butter mixture.
5. Add the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the bowl, and mix well to combine.
6. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft cookie dough forms.
7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
8. Gently flatten each dough ball with the back of a spoon or the palm of your hand to your desired thickness.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness, if desired.
These Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion, from tea parties to afternoon snacks or even as homemade gifts for friends and family. The bright lemon flavor combined with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds makes these cookies a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy the freshness and simplicity of these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, and watch as they disappear quickly, leaving smiles on the faces of all who taste them.
