These Lemon Blueberry Cookies are a tasty treat that burst with sweet blueberries and zesty lemon flavor. They’re soft, chewy, and perfect for any snack time!
I love how the lemon gives them a nice, fresh twist! Plus, they’re so quick to make—one minute you’re mixing, and the next, you’re enjoying a warm cookie. Yum! 🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness of the cookies. If you’re in a pinch, you can use margarine, though it might slightly alter the texture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the cookies a nice sweetness, but you can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Just keep in mind that it will make the cookies a bit chewier.
Lemon Zest & Juice: Fresh lemons add brightness! If you don’t have them, bottled lemon juice can work, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. You can also use lime juice for a different twist.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries make the cookies juicy, but don’t worry if they’re out of season; frozen blueberries work well too. Just remember not to thaw them before adding!
How Do You Get Soft and Chewy Cookies?
To ensure your cookies stay soft and chewy, pay attention to baking time and temperature. Over-baking can lead to a hard cookie! Follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven accurately; a good oven thermometer can help.
- Bake until the edges are golden, and the center looks slightly underbaked, about 12-15 minutes.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them. This helps them set up while keeping that soft interior.
Delicious Lemon Blueberry Cookies Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Batter:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (can use frozen, do not thaw)
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and 12-15 minutes for baking. In total, set aside about 35-40 minutes to have these delightful cookies ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step is important for creating a nice texture!
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until everything is well mixed together. You should have a smooth batter at this point.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Fold in Blueberries:
Now for the star of the show! Gently fold in the blueberries using a spatula or a wooden spoon. Be gentle so you don’t crush them and lose that beautiful color!
6. Form the Cookies:
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop dollops of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. To give them a nice shape, flatten each cookie slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
7. Sprinkle for Sparkle:
Before they go in the oven, sprinkle a little extra granulated sugar over the tops of the cookies for a sweet, sparkling finish.
8. Bake the Cookies:
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until you see the edges turning golden and the centers looking set. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking; you want them soft!
9. Cool the Cookies:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This will help them firm up a bit before moving them.
10. Enjoy the Deliciousness:
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, they’re all ready to be enjoyed! Taste the tangy lemon and juicy blueberries in each soft, chewy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Berries?
Absolutely! While blueberries are fantastic in this recipe, you can substitute them with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or chopped strawberries. Just keep in mind that different berries may alter the flavor slightly!
Can I Make These Cookies Vegan?
Yes! To make these cookies vegan, substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of the regular egg. They’ll still be delicious!
What Should I Do If My Dough is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it could change the texture of the cookies!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw before enjoying!
