Lemon Raspberry Cookies

These Lemon Raspberry Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet snack. With their soft and fluffy texture, these cookies strike a delightful balance between sweetness and tanginess. Made without eggs and packed with vibrant flavors from fresh lemons and frozen raspberries, they bring a refreshing taste reminiscent of a summertime drink. Plus, they’re gluten-free and nut-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make these cookies beginner-friendly.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of lemon and raspberry offers a unique taste that can brighten any dessert table.
• Diet-Friendly: These cookies are eggless, gluten-free, nut-free, and can easily be made vegan, catering to diverse diets.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The vibrant colors of raspberries combined with zesty lemon glaze make them visually appealing.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 11 large cookies, they’re great for sharing with friends or family during gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Lemon Raspberry Cookies, having the right tools on hand will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Baking Sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking, preventing burnt bottoms while allowing your cookies to rise perfectly.
• Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper keeps your cookies from sticking to the pan, making clean-up easy.
• Whisk: A whisk helps in creating a consistent batter by thoroughly mixing dry and wet ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 2 cups gluten free flour (I use a 1:1 gluten free flour with xanthan gum)
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or vegan baking stick, room temperature)
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 heaping tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice (from about 1 medium lemon)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 medium lemons)
• 1/2 cup frozen raspberries (chopped)

For the Lemon Sugar Coating

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about 1 medium lemon)

For the Raspberry Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1-2 frozen raspberries
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon water

How to Make Lemon Raspberry Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and makes it easier to remove the cookies after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter (or vegan option) with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step adds air into your mixture for fluffy cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the cornstarch mixture, milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the butter-sugar mix. Stir until fully combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; then fold in the chopped frozen raspberries gently to avoid breaking them too much.

Step 7: Form Dough Balls

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls about two inches wide. Roll each ball in the lemon sugar coating before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for about 15 minutes until they are lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Let them cool on a wire rack before glazing.

Step 9: Prepare Raspberry Glaze

In a small bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar with crushed frozen raspberries and water until you achieve a smooth consistency. Drizzle over cooled cookies once they are ready.

By following these steps closely, you’ll have delicious Lemon Raspberry Cookies that everyone will love! Enjoy this delightful treat at any time of day!

How to Serve Lemon Raspberry Cookies

These delightful Lemon Raspberry Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, serving these cookies in style can enhance the experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• A warm cup of herbal or green tea complements the zesty flavors of the cookies beautifully.

At a Picnic

• Pack these cookies in a container for an easy dessert option that pairs well with fresh fruits and lemonade.

For Dessert Buffets

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other sweet treats for a stunning dessert table display.

With Ice Cream

• Serve these cookies with a scoop of lemon sorbet or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing twist.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon to give as delightful party favors.

How to Perfect Lemon Raspberry Cookies

Achieving the perfect Lemon Raspberry Cookies requires some thoughtful attention. Here are some tips to help you make them just right.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape and texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest elevate the flavor profile significantly. Choose ripe lemons for the best results.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding raspberries. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking; remove them when they are lightly golden around the edges for ideal softness.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Raspberry Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Raspberry Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Lemonade Spritzer
   A fizzy lemonade drink will echo the lemon flavor, making it a refreshing pairing.
3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy contrast to the light cookies.
4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   The rich chocolate provides a decadent complement to the tangy raspberry flavor.
5. Cheese Platter
   Mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide a savory balance to sweet flavors.
6. Mini Cheesecakes
   Individual cheesecakes can be served alongside as an elegant dessert option that pairs well with lemon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lemon Raspberry Cookies can be a delight, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for. Here are a few tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly!

• Using the wrong flour: Not all gluten-free flours are the same. Make sure to use a 1:1 gluten-free flour with xanthan gum for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to dense cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for fluffy cookies.
• Skipping lemon zest: Lemon zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it! Use fresh lemons for the best taste.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accurate results.
• Ignoring chilling time: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. Allow at least 30 minutes of chill time before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Raspberry Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Raspberry Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Lemon Raspberry Cookies eggless?

These cookies use cornstarch mixed with water as an egg substitute, providing moisture and binding without eggs.

Can I make these Lemon Raspberry Cookies vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute unsalted butter with a vegan baking stick, and they will be completely vegan-friendly.

How do I achieve a more intense lemon flavor?

For more lemony goodness, increase the amount of lemon zest or juice slightly. Fresh ingredients always enhance flavor!

Can I add other fruits instead of raspberries?

Absolutely! You can experiment with blueberries or strawberries for a different fruity twist while keeping the base recipe intact.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store any leftover Lemon Raspberry Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Raspberry Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With their soft and fluffy texture combined with bright flavors, they are perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding different fruits or adjusting the sweetness according to your taste preferences. Enjoy these delightful treats!