Lemon glazed cookies were my go-to bake when I wanted something sweet but bright enough to feel refreshing. I remember whipping up a batch on a spring afternoon just to chase away the last chill of winter and when I took that first bite—tender citrusy cookie topped with glossy lemon glaze—it was like biting into sunshine.

Ever since then they’ve been my favorite to share with neighbors or tuck into lunchboxes. The soft buttery cookie underneath pairs perfectly with the zesty tang of lemon glaze and they come together easily with pantry staples and fresh lemons.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
For the Cookies:
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and makes the cookies soft and tender
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and creates a lightly crisp edge
Egg – Binds everything together and adds structure
Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the lemon flavor
Lemon zest – Infuses the dough with fresh citrus brightness
All-purpose flour – Forms the base and structure of the cookie
Baking soda – Helps the cookies spread and rise slightly
Salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the lemon notes
For the Glaze:
Powdered sugar – Creates the smooth sweet base of the glaze
Lemon juice – Adds the tart citrus punch to balance the sweetness
Lemon zest – Optional but great for color and extra zing

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowls – For preparing the cookie dough and the glaze separately
Hand mixer or stand mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugar fast and smooth
Microplane or zester – To get fine lemon zest easily
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate baking every time
Cookie scoop – Ensures even cookie size and baking
Baking sheet – For baking the cookies evenly
Parchment paper – Keeps cookies from sticking and helps with cleanup
Whisk – For mixing the glaze into a pourable consistency
Spoon – To drizzle or spread the glaze over each cookie

Instructions

Step 1:

I preheat my oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so I’m ready when the dough is mixed.

Step 2:

In a large bowl I cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy then beat in the egg vanilla and lemon zest.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl I whisk together the flour baking soda and salt then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until combined.

Step 4:

Using a cookie scoop I portion the dough onto the baking sheet spacing them about two inches apart to allow room for spreading.

Step 5:

I bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes until the edges are just golden and the centers are set then I cool them on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a rack.

Step 6:

While the cookies cool I whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to form a smooth glaze then stir in lemon zest for added brightness.

Step 7:

Once the cookies are completely cool I spoon or drizzle the glaze over each one and let it set until it forms a shiny firm top.

Tips

For an extra pop of lemon flavor I sometimes use lemon extract in the dough. You can also glaze just the center for a rustic look or dip the tops for full coverage. If your glaze is too thin add more powdered sugar and if it’s too thick add a few drops of juice until it’s just right.

Ways to Serve

These cookies are perfect with tea or coffee and make a lovely treat for brunch baby showers or springtime events. I also love boxing them up in cute tins for gifts because they travel well and stay soft for days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Lemon Glazed Cookies?

Yes you can freeze the unglazed cookies and add the glaze after thawing for best texture.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice and zest make a big difference in flavor but bottled works in a pinch.

How do I store them?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate if you prefer a firmer glaze.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you bake a batch of these Lemon Glazed Cookies and enjoy their fresh sunny flavor as much as I do. They’re simple sweet and full of bright citrus charm—perfect for brightening up any day.

Happy Cooking!