Lemon Raspberry Cookies

A Delightful Combination of Sweet and Tart

Lemon raspberry cookies bring together the zesty brightness of fresh lemons and the sweet-tart juiciness of raspberries, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies have a soft, chewy texture with bursts of fruitiness in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, a special treat, or simply indulging in homemade goodness, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Flavor Balance – The citrusy zing of lemon pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of raspberries.
• Soft and Chewy Texture – A delightful contrast to the fruit’s juiciness.
• Easy to Make – Simple steps for a bakery-worthy cookie.
• Great for Any Occasion – A fresh and vibrant dessert for spring, summer, or holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup fresh raspberries, halved
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat the 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, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
6. Gently fold in the raspberries and white chocolate chips (if using), being careful not to mash the berries.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• Vegan-Friendly – Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water).
• Extra Fruity – Add dried raspberries or freeze-dried raspberry powder for more intense berry flavor.
• Crunchy Twist – Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for a slight crunch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 18 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep for up to a week in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Store unbaked dough balls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

How do I prevent raspberries from making the dough too wet?

Pat the raspberries dry before folding them in, and avoid overmixing the dough.

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, but do not thaw them first, as they may release too much moisture.

What’s the best way to zest a lemon?

Use a microplane grater and only zest the yellow part, avoiding the bitter white pith.

Can I substitute lime for lemon?

Absolutely! Lime zest and juice will give a slightly different citrus twist.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Overmixing or too much butter can cause spreading. Chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking can help.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes, replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce for an egg-free version.

How can I enhance the lemon flavor?

Add a few drops of lemon extract or extra lemon zest to intensify the citrus flavor.

Should I refrigerate the dough before baking?

If your dough is too soft, refrigerating it for 20-30 minutes helps prevent excessive spreading.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, chopped almonds or macadamia nuts would add a great crunch.

What other mix-ins work well?

Try white chocolate chunks, shredded coconut, or even a hint of cinnamon for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Lemon raspberry cookies are a delightful combination of tart citrus and sweet berries, making them a refreshing and unique treat. With simple ingredients and easy steps, they’re perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Try these cookies for a fresh twist on classic flavors, and enjoy a bright, chewy bite of homemade goodness!

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