Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

There’s just something about the combination of lemon and poppy seeds that makes me feel instantly uplifted. The aroma of freshly baked Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies wafting through the kitchen brings back memories of sunny spring days and gatherings with friends. I remember the first time I made these delightful cookies; I was inspired by a craving for something light, sweet, and bursting with citrus flavor. As I combined the ingredients, the anticipation built, and I could hardly wait to take that first bite. These cookies are not just treats; they’re little bites of sunshine!

What to Gather for Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making mouthwatering Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies. Each ingredient plays a significant role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The key players are the unsalted butter, which ensures a rich, creamy base, and the fresh lemon juice and zest that impart that vibrant citrus flavor we love.

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of our cookies, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – This helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Aiding in leavening, making the cookies light.
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Provides richness and a creamy texture.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – A sweet base that caramelizes beautifully.
• 1 large egg – Binds ingredients together, adding moisture.
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest – Infuses bright lemon flavor.
• 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Adds tanginess and enhances flavor.
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds – Provides a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – For the glaze, adding richness.
• 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetening the glaze to perfection.
• 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – For the glaze, enhancing the lemon flavor.

Preparation Steps for Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Making Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies is a delightful journey filled with fresh aromas and the promise of sweet treats. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rewarded with golden, delicious cookies that are sure to impress.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and helps them achieve that lovely golden color. While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt. This step combines your dry ingredients and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents, which is crucial for a perfect rise.

3. In another bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Scraping down the sides of the bowl ensures everything is well mixed.

4. Add the egg to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides again! Then, add the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing until just combined. This is where the magic happens, as the citrus aroma fills the kitchen.

5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your cookies may become tough. Add the poppy seeds and gently mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Using a small (1 tablespoon) cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each scoop. This space allows them to spread while baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden. Keep an eye on them; ovens can vary! When done, the cookies should be soft but not doughy.

8. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps them set and makes them easier to handle.

9. While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, and additional lemon juice until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable, perfect for dipping.

10. Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. You can also use the side of the bowl to scrape off the extra glaze, leaving a thin layer on top.

11. Allow the glaze to set before serving. Then, gather your friends or family and enjoy these fabulous Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies together!

Helpful Notes about Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Every baker knows that little notes can make a significant difference! Here are some helpful tips for making your Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies even better:

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dough before baking. Scoop the dough onto a tray, freeze until hard, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen for a few extra minutes.
• Variations: Experiment with adding chocolate chips or swapping some of the granulated sugar for brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Serving Suggestion: These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon snacks.
• Gifting: Package them in a decorative box or tin to share with friends and family for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Accompaniments for Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

When it comes to serving Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies, think about the perfect pairings that enhance their delightful flavors.

• Tea Time: These cookies make an excellent companion to a cup of herbal tea, especially flavors like chamomile or green tea.
• Coffee Break: Enjoy them alongside your favorite coffee for a sweet morning or afternoon treat.
• Spring Gatherings: Perfect for brunches or spring picnics when fresh fruits are in season. Pair with strawberries or blueberries for a delicious spread.
• Special Occasions: Serve these with a light, citrusy salad at bridal showers or baby showers to add a touch of sweetness to the menu.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture for a few days.
• Seasonal Themes: Decorate them with icing and sprinkles for holidays, or shape them into fun designs for kids’ parties.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies lies in their bright flavor and delightful texture. Whether you’re enjoying them during a quiet afternoon or sharing them during a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. I encourage you to try making a batch soon. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create these delicious treats and how quickly they disappear!

Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

The ultimate sweet and tangy treat, Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies are light, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make cookies will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. Bake a batch tonight and enjoy bites of sunshine!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 45 cookies

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 100

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Equipment

• Cookie Scoop Set
• Nordic Ware Aluminum Half Sheet Pans
• Pre-Cut Parchment Paper Baking Sheets

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and helps them achieve that lovely golden color. While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt. This step combines your dry ingredients and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents, which is crucial for a perfect rise.
3. In another bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Scraping down the sides of the bowl ensures everything is well mixed.
4. Add the egg to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides again! Then, add the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing until just combined. This is where the magic happens, as the citrus aroma fills the kitchen.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your cookies may become tough. Add the poppy seeds and gently mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Using a small (1 tablespoon) cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each scoop. This space allows them to spread while baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden. Keep an eye on them; ovens can vary! When done, the cookies should be soft but not doughy.
8. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
9. While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, and additional lemon juice until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable, perfect for dipping.
10. Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. You can also use the side of the bowl to scrape off the extra glaze, leaving a thin layer on top.
11. Allow the glaze to set before serving. Then, gather your friends or family and enjoy these fabulous Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies together!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the dough before baking. Scoop the dough onto a tray, freeze until hard, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen for a few extra minutes.
• Tip 3: Experiment with adding chocolate chips or swapping some of the granulated sugar for brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Tip 4: These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon snacks.
• Tip 5: Package them in a decorative box or tin to share with friends and family for a thoughtful homemade gift.

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Meet Georgia Clark

I’m the one who obsesses over the details so you don't have to. I love the science of cooking and perfecting comfort classics. I’ve tested this recipe multiple times to guarantee it comes out foolproof and delicious every single time you make it.