If you’re a fan of lemon’s bright, tangy flavor and the buttery richness of poundcake, these Lemon Poundcake Cookies are the perfect combination! Soft, chewy, and bursting with citrusy goodness, these cookies are as easy to make as they are delicious. Perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers big on flavor while being surprisingly simple.

Let’s dive into how to create these delightful lemony treats step by step!

Why These Cookies Are So Irresistible

These lemon poundcake cookies aren’t just another dessert—they’re a celebration of freshness and indulgence:

Buttery & Citrusy : The soft cookie base is infused with fresh lemon zest and juice for a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the rich butter.
Easy to Make : With just a few pantry staples, these cookies come together quickly and require no fancy techniques.
Perfectly Chewy : The poundcake-inspired texture ensures each bite is tender and satisfying.
Customizable : Add sprinkles, glaze, or even poppy seeds for extra flair.

Whether served warm from the oven or enjoyed as leftovers, these cookies promise to satisfy every sweet tooth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter , softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender cookie texture.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until well combined.

Pro Tip: Use a microplane grater for finely zesting the lemon to maximize its aromatic oils.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and airy.

5. Portion the Dough

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon.

6. Bake Until Golden

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes , or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even cooking.

7. Cool and Serve

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with lemon glaze if desired.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Lemons : Freshly zested and juiced lemons provide superior flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
Don’t Overbake : Underbaked cookies are softer and chewier—check them earlier if using smaller portions.
Make Ahead : Prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight for easier handling and enhanced flavor.
Add Extras : Stir in poppy seeds, crushed candy-coated chocolates, or sprinkles during the last few minutes of baking for added visual appeal.

Conclusion

These Lemon Poundcake Cookies are more than just dessert—they’re a burst of sunshine in every bite. With their buttery texture, tangy lemon flavor, and customizable options, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor these delightful creations! Don’t forget to share your results with us in the comments below—we’d love to see how they turned out.

If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our other articles for more dessert inspiration and easy cooking ideas. Happy baking, and remember—life’s too short not to enjoy something sweet now and then! 🍴✨