Lemon Ginger Cookies Recipe

Lemon ginger cookies combine the bright, tangy flavor of lemon with the warm, spicy kick of ginger, creating a cookie that is both refreshing and comforting. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies have a soft and chewy texture with a hint of crunch from sugar on the outside. Whether you're serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to impress. Read on for a delicious and easy-to-follow recipe, including tips, substitutions, and variations.

What Are Lemon Ginger Cookies?

Lemon ginger cookies are a flavorful twist on classic ginger cookies. These cookies feature a zesty lemon flavor that perfectly complements the warmth of ground ginger and fresh ginger. With their crisp edges and soft centers, they offer a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors, making them a wonderful treat for any season. The combination of ginger and lemon is both refreshing and cozy, which makes these cookies ideal for enjoying throughout the year.

Ingredients List for Lemon Ginger Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make about 24-30 lemon ginger cookies:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability for the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and spread evenly.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger – Provides the signature warm spice flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger – Grated, for an extra punch of ginger flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the cookies.
• ½ cup unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
• 1 large egg – Binds the dough and adds moisture.
• ¼ cup molasses – Adds depth of flavor and keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest – Provides bright citrusy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Enhances the lemon flavor and adds a hint of tang.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling) – Adds a crunchy coating to the cookies.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some easy substitutions and variations to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure).
• Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil.
• Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg and a plant-based butter substitute.
• Extra Spicy: If you love ginger, add an extra teaspoon of ground ginger or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Candied Ginger: Chop up ¼ cup of crystallized ginger and fold it into the dough for added texture and bursts of ginger flavor.
• Iced Lemon Glaze: For extra lemony sweetness, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the cooled cookies. Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and drizzle over the cookies.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make perfect lemon ginger cookies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup and even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground ginger. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the egg, molasses, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Fold in the fresh ginger with a spatula, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

Step 5: Shape and Roll the Cookies

1. Scoop out 1- to 1.5-inch balls of dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon. Roll the dough balls between your hands to form smooth spheres.
2. Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar until fully coated. This will give the cookies a slight crunch on the outside and a sweet sparkle.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

1. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. The centers should still look slightly soft—this will ensure the cookies remain chewy.
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Cook Lemon Ginger Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Achieving the perfect lemon ginger cookies is all about balancing flavors and getting the texture just right. Here’s a quick guide:

• Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly: This step incorporates air into the dough, giving the cookies a light texture. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Use both ground and fresh ginger: Ground ginger adds warmth, while fresh ginger provides a spicy bite. This combination creates a well-rounded ginger flavor.
• Roll in sugar for extra crunch: Rolling the dough balls in sugar before baking adds a nice texture contrast, with a crunchy exterior and soft interior.
• Underbake slightly: For chewy cookies, pull them out of the oven when the centers are still slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the dough: Overworking the dough can result in dense, tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t cream properly with the sugar, which will affect the texture of the cookies. Be sure the butter is softened to room temperature.
• Overbaking: Cookies continue to bake on the hot baking sheet after they’re removed from the oven, so it’s important to take them out when the centers are still soft.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Lemon ginger cookies are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many different settings. Here are some serving ideas:

• With tea or coffee: Serve these cookies with a cup of hot tea (especially lemon or ginger tea) or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat.
• At parties or gatherings: Arrange these bright, flavorful cookies on a dessert platter alongside other baked goods for a refreshing contrast.
• Gift them: Lemon ginger cookies make a thoughtful homemade gift. Package them in a decorative tin or wrap them in cellophane with a festive ribbon.

How to Serve Lemon Ginger Cookies

These cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions. For an elegant presentation, serve them on a decorative plate with a sprig of fresh mint or a few lemon slices. They’re also great to pack in lunchboxes or take on-the-go for a sweet, flavorful snack.

Presentation Ideas for Lemon Ginger Cookies

For a beautiful presentation, consider these ideas:

• Stack them in clear jars: For a rustic look, stack the cookies in mason jars and tie the top with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift.
• Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an added touch of elegance.
• Create a cookie tower: Stack the cookies in a pyramid shape on a cake stand and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves for a stunning display.

Lemon Ginger Cookies Recipe Tips

• Chill the dough for thicker cookies: If you prefer thicker, chunkier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. This will prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
• Make ahead: The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
• Double the batch: These cookies are so delicious that you’ll likely want to double the recipe if you’re baking for a crowd.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze lemon ginger cookie dough?
A: Yes! You can freeze the dough balls before rolling them in sugar. Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, roll them in sugar and bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.

Q: How should I store lemon ginger cookies?
A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: Why are my cookies too hard?
A: Hard cookies are usually the result of overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to bake the cookies just until the edges are set, and measure your ingredients carefully.

Q: Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon juice?
A: Yes, you can use lemon extract for a more concentrated lemon flavor. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Conclusion

Lemon ginger cookies are a delightful and flavorful twist on classic ginger cookies, offering a perfect balance of spicy warmth from the ginger and refreshing citrus from the lemon. Whether you're baking these cookies for a special occasion, as a gift, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, this recipe is sure to impress. With these step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, you’ll have no trouble baking a batch of soft, chewy, and delicious lemon ginger cookies that everyone will love. Happy baking!

Print