Bright, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavors, Lemon Blueberry Cookies are the perfect treat to bring a bit of sunshine to your day. These cookies combine the tartness of lemon with the sweet burst of blueberries, creating a delightful balance that’s sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lemon Blueberry Cookies are perfect for anyone who loves the refreshing combination of citrus and berries. These cookies are soft and chewy with a slightly crisp edge, and the flavors of lemon and blueberry come together beautifully. They’re easy to make and perfect for any time of year, especially during the summer when blueberries are in season. Plus, they make a wonderful addition to your cookie jar, lunchbox, or dessert table.
Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Gather these essential tools before you start:
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
5. Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries with a spatula, being careful not to crush them.
6. Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be soft.
8. Cool the Cookies
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
9. Optional: Dust with Powdered Sugar
For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Use Fresh or Frozen Blueberries: Fresh blueberries work best, but if you use frozen, do not thaw them before adding to the dough to prevent the dough from becoming too wet.
- Glaze Option: Instead of dusting with powdered sugar, drizzle the cookies with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Add a Crunch: For some texture, consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine to make these cookies dairy-free.
Storing Leftovers
Store Lemon Blueberry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Perfect Pairings
These cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and can be enjoyed at any time of the day:
- Beverages: Serve with a glass of cold milk, a hot cup of tea, or a refreshing lemonade for a delightful snack.
- Desserts: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent treat.
- Brunch: Add these cookies to your brunch spread alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and muffins for a light and fruity option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of berries in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute blueberries with other berries such as raspberries or blackberries. However, note that different berries may affect the texture and moisture content of the cookies.
How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is just softened and not melted. Additionally, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can also help enhance the flavors.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Lemon Blueberry Cookies are a delightful treat that bring a burst of sunshine to any occasion. Their perfect balance of tart lemon and sweet blueberries makes them a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cookies are a must-try.