Lemon Blueberry Cookies

Lemon blueberry cookies are the perfect treat for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet snack at home. With their soft centers and crispy edges, these cookies are bursting with wild blueberries and coated in a delightful lemon sugar that enhances their refreshing flavor. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying, lemon blueberry cookies will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart lemon and sweet blueberries creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the blueberries alongside the bright lemon sugar make these cookies visually appealing.
• Freezer Friendly: You can easily freeze the dough or baked cookies for later enjoyment, making them a convenient treat anytime.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your lemon blueberry cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows for easy combining of all your ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures that your butter and sugars are perfectly creamed together for a light texture.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

To make these delightful lemon blueberry cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup Butter (unsalted, softened at room temp)
• 1 1/4 cups White granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup Light brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Lemon zest
• 1 Large egg
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice (fresh is best)
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups All purpose flour (sifted)
• 1/2 tsp Baking powder
• 1/2 tsp Baking soda
• 1/2 tsp Salt

For the Blueberry Coating

• 3/4 cup Wild frozen blueberries
• 1/2 cup White granulated sugar
• 2 tsp Lemon zest

How to Make Lemon Blueberry 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 your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, white granulated sugar, and light brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the lemon zest, egg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the wild frozen blueberries with a spatula. Be careful not to break them apart too much.

Step 7: Prepare Lemon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine the remaining white granulated sugar with lemon zest. Set aside for coating.

Step 8: Scoop Cookies onto Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.

Step 9: Coat with Lemon Sugar

Sprinkle each cookie ball generously with the lemon sugar mixture before placing them in the oven.

Step 10: Bake

Bake for about 17 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Let cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious lemon blueberry cookies!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Cookies

Lemon blueberry cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy gathering at home. These delightful treats can be enjoyed in many ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside a variety of fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches for a refreshing contrast.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Top your cookies with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat that adds creaminess to the zesty flavors.

Paired with Iced Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with a glass of iced tea, which complements the lemon flavor and adds a refreshing touch.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include your lemon blueberry cookies on a dessert platter with other baked goods like brownies and mini tarts for an inviting display.

How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Cookies

To achieve the best lemon blueberry cookies, pay attention to detail during preparation. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Sift your flour: Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures even distribution of baking powder and soda throughout the dough.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape.
• Don’t overbake: Watch your cookies closely while they bake. They should have slightly golden edges but remain soft in the center.
• Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor compared to bottled varieties.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Cookies

Pairing side dishes with lemon blueberry cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast in texture.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light yet satisfying accompaniment that complements the cookie’s flavors.

4. Cheese Board
   A selection of mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese can provide a savory element that contrasts nicely with sweet cookies.

5. Herbal Tea
   Serve with soothing herbal teas like chamomile or mint to enhance relaxation while enjoying dessert.

6. Lemonade
   Cool, refreshing lemonade pairs perfectly with lemon blueberry cookies, emphasizing their citrusy zing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Baking lemon blueberry cookies can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft.

• Using old baking powder: Expired baking powder can prevent your cookies from rising. Always check the expiration date before baking.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can result in flat cookies. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better texture.
• Skipping the lemon zest: This crucial ingredient gives your cookies a fresh flavor. Don’t omit it, as it enhances the overall taste.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they’ll last up to three months.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes for optimal freshness.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making lemon blueberry cookies.

How do I make Lemon Blueberry Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh blueberries work well too, but reduce any excess moisture in the batter.

What can I use instead of white sugar?

You could use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia if you prefer a different sweetness level.

How can I customize my Lemon Blueberry Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts or other fruits such as raspberries for added flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

Lemon blueberry cookies are a delightful treat perfect for summer. Their chewy texture combined with fresh flavors makes them incredibly appealing. You can easily customize them by adding different fruits or nuts. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delicious cookies with family and friends!