Lemon Wafers, a delightful treat that embodies the essence of zesty lemon and buttery goodness, are a must-have in your recipe repertoire. These scrumptious drop cookies are not only quick and easy to make but also perfect for any occasion, whether you’re indulging in a sweet craving or entertaining a crowd. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll soon be savoring the irresistible aroma and flavor of these lemon-infused delights.
With a cook time of just 8 minutes and a total preparation time of 18 minutes, Lemon Wafers offer a quick fix for your sweet tooth cravings, making them an ideal choice for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up or when unexpected guests drop by. This recipe yields approximately 36 cookies, ensuring there’s plenty to go around, whether you’re sharing them with family and friends or keeping them all to yourself (we won’t judge!).
Let’s delve into the ingredients that make these Lemon Wafers so irresistible. You’ll need:
- 2 cups of flour: Providing the base for these delicate cookies, all-purpose flour ensures the perfect texture and structure.
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder: This leavening agent adds a subtle lift to the cookies, resulting in a light and airy texture.
- 2/3 cup of butter: The key to rich flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth consistency, unsalted butter brings indulgence to every bite.
- 1 1/3 cups of sugar: Sweetness abounds in these cookies, with granulated sugar providing that essential sweetness.
- 2 eggs: Adding moisture and binding the ingredients together, eggs are a crucial component of this recipe.
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract: Enhancing the overall flavor profile, vanilla extract lends a warm and aromatic note.
- Zest of 3 lemons: The star ingredient, lemon zest infuses these wafers with vibrant citrus flavor, providing a refreshing twist.
Now, let’s dive into the preparation steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s adequately heated for perfectly baked cookies.
- Lightly grease your cookie sheets or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder, setting them aside for later use.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, using either a stand mixer or a handheld mixer for optimal results.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, lemon extract, and freshly grated lemon zest, ensuring they’re fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- For an extra touch of sparkle and sweetness, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with yellow sugar crystals before placing them in the oven.
- Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden brown around the edges, ensuring not to overbake to maintain their tender texture.
- Once baked to perfection, remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to wire racks to cool completely, allowing them to firm up before enjoying.
With each bite of these Lemon Wafers, you’ll experience a burst of citrusy flavor balanced by the rich buttery notes, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy indulgence. Whether served alongside a cup of tea for an afternoon treat or as a delightful finale to a dinner party, these cookies are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Nutritionally, each serving of Lemon Wafers (based on a yield of 36 cookies) contains approximately 179.9 calories, with 7.5 grams of fat, 4.5 grams of saturated fat, 41.7 milligrams of cholesterol, 66.9 milligrams of sodium, 25.6 grams of carbohydrates, 0.5 grams of fiber, 14.9 grams of sugar, and 2.2 grams of protein. These values may vary slightly depending on factors such as ingredient brands and portion sizes.
In conclusion, Lemon Wafers are a delightful addition to any dessert spread, offering a burst of sunshine in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection, bringing joy and satisfaction to all who indulge. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with lemony bliss!
