Soft, fluffy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor, these Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The cream cheese and lemon create a tender texture and tangy flavor, while the light glaze adds a touch of sweetness. These cookies are easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.

Why You’ll Love These Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Cookies :

1. Irresistibly Soft: The cream cheese ensures every bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
2. Bright Lemon Flavor: Fresh lemon zest and juice provide a refreshing citrusy punch.
3. Easy to Make: Straightforward instructions make this recipe great for bakers of all skill levels.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for parties, afternoon tea, or as a light dessert after dinner.

Ingredients For Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Cookies :

For the Cookies:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 to 3 tablespoons lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2½ to 2¾ cups all-purpose flour (add more if the dough is too soft)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Icing:

• 1½ tablespoons lemon juice or water
• ¾ to 1 cup powdered sugar
• Optional: Extra lemon zest for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese on medium speed for about 1 minute until smooth.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until fully combined.

Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

1. Add half of the flour, along with the cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Mix gently to incorporate.
2. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing just until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too soft, add additional flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it begins to form a slight ball.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or up to a few days. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray lightly with cooking spray.
2. Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough into 1½-tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each ball between your palms to create a smooth, round shape and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake for 8-15 minutes, keeping an eye on the cookies. They should appear slightly undercooked but will firm up as they cool. If they seem raw after 15 minutes, bake for an additional 5 minutes or more as needed, depending on your oven.
4. Remove from the oven and, while still hot, gently press down on the tops of the cookies if you prefer a flatter shape.
5. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Icing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice (or water). Mix quickly to create a smooth, lump-free glaze.
2. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the icing or drizzle it over the cookies. Allow the glaze to harden before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Cookies :

1. Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the refrigeration step. It helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
2. Test Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary. If your cookies seem raw after baking for the recommended time, continue baking in small increments until they’re just set.
3. Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, which can taste artificial.
4. Adjust Glaze Consistency: If the icing feels too thick, add a tiny bit more lemon juice or water. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

FAQs About Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Cookies :

1. Can I Freeze the Dough?

Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer the balls to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Ensure your cornstarch and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

3. Why Do My Cookies Look Raw After Baking?

These cookies are designed to be soft and slightly underbaked when they come out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool. If they still seem too raw after cooling, bake them a little longer, but avoid overbaking as this will affect their texture.

4. Can I Use Other Citrus Fruits?

Absolutely! Swap the lemon juice and zest with lime, orange, or grapefruit for a different citrus flavor.

5. How Should I Store These Cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions :

• Tea Time Treat: Pair these cookies with a cup of herbal or green tea for a refreshing snack.
• Festive Platter: Include these cookies on a holiday dessert platter with other favorites like chocolate chip cookies or shortbread.
• Dessert Base: Crumble the cookies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick and delicious dessert.

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Yield: 24 cookies

Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Cookies

Print

these Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Chill Time 2 hours

Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes

Ingredients

• Cookies:
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 to 3 tbsp lemon zest
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 2½ to 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• Lemon Icing:
• 1½ tbsp lemon juice or water
• ¾ to 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Cream butter and cream cheese in a mixer for 1 minute. Add sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in egg, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Add dry ingredients in two batches, alternating with milk, until a dough forms. Chill for 2-3 hours.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll chilled dough into 1½-tbsp balls and bake for 8-15 minutes. Cool completely.

Prepare icing by whisking powdered sugar and lemon juice. Dip cookies or drizzle with icing and let harden.

Notes

Nutrition (per cookie):Calories: 120 | Carbs: 18g | Fat: 4g | Protein: 1g

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These Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Cookies are a delightful mix of tangy and sweet, perfect for brightening up any dessert spread. With their tender texture and citrus glaze, they’re a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to bake again and again. Happy baking! 🍋🍪