The Zestiest Lemon Ginger Cookies Recipe Ever Made

Delightful lemon ginger cookies spark memories of sunshine-filled afternoons and cozy kitchen conversations.

Bright citrus notes dance alongside warm spices in this simple yet stunning treat.

Sweet crumbles melt on your tongue, releasing unexpected flavor combinations.

Baking becomes an adventure when zesty ingredients blend seamlessly.

Crisp edges and soft centers create perfect textural harmony.

Light and refreshing, these cookies invite playful moments of pure enjoyment.

Whip up a batch and watch smiles bloom with each delectable bite.

Storage Guidelines for Lemon Ginger Cookies

• Store cookies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap unbaked cookie dough balls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Place completely cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with wax paper separating each layer. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed cookies in a preheated oven at 300F for 3-5 minutes to restore their crisp edges and soft center.

FAQs

• What makes the lemon and ginger combination special in these cookies?

The bright citrus zest and spicy crystallized ginger create a balanced, vibrant flavor profile that’s both refreshing and warming.

• Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking, or freeze the dough balls for up to 2 months.

• Is crystallized ginger necessary for the recipe?

While crystallized ginger adds a delightful texture and intense ginger flavor, you can omit it if unavailable, though the cookies will have a milder taste.

Lemon Ginger Cookies: Bright and Spicy

• Burst with Zesty Flavor: These cookies pack a punch with bright lemon and warming ginger, creating a delightful taste sensation that dances on your palate.
• Beginner Baker's Delight: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for novice bakers looking to impress family and friends with minimal kitchen stress.
• Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Versatile enough for casual gatherings, holiday parties, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone who takes a bite.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few mixing steps and minimal baking time, you'll have a batch of homemade cookies ready to enjoy in no time.

Ingredients for Lemon Ginger Cookies

• Baking Soda, Baking Powder: These ingredients help the cookies rise and create a soft, fluffy texture.

• Butter: A rich, creamy base that provides moisture and enhances the cookie's flavor.
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure to the cookies.
• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Bring a bright, citrusy flavor and tangy freshness to the cookies.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet undertone that complements the other flavors.

• Flour: The primary structure and body of the cookie.
• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and help create a golden, crisp exterior.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Ground Ginger: Adds a warm, spicy note that pairs perfectly with the lemon.
• Crystallized Ginger: Offers bursts of intense, sweet-spicy flavor throughout the cookie.

How to Prepare Lemon Ginger Cookies

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F (175C), getting it ready for some cookie magic.

Step 2: Whip the Butter and Sugars

Grab your mixer and blend the soft butter with granulated and brown sugars until they transform into a fluffy cloud of sweetness.

Step 3: Add Zesty Moisture

• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Vanilla extract

Blend until everything looks smooth and inviting.

Step 4: Create the Dry Mix

• Flour
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground ginger

Whisk them together until perfectly integrated.

Step 5: Marry the Wet and Dry

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

Don’t overmix!

Step 6: Sprinkle in Ginger Goodness

Toss in finely chopped crystallized ginger, giving the dough an extra zingy punch.

Step 7: Shape and Sugar Coat

Roll the dough into cute 1-inch balls, then roll each one in granulated sugar for a sparkling exterior.

Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the sugary dough balls on a lined baking sheet, leaving plenty of breathing room between them.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the sheet into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn a gorgeous light golden color.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Get ready to devour these zesty treats!

Pro Tips for Lemon Ginger Cookies

• Use a microplane or fine grater to easily remove lemon zest without touching the bitter white pith underneath.
• Chop crystallized ginger finely for even distribution and intense flavor throughout the cookies.
• Roll cookie balls generously in granulated sugar for a sparkling, crisp exterior that adds delightful texture.
• Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft and chewy for several days.
• Prepare cookie dough balls in advance and freeze them, then bake directly from frozen state by adding 2-3 extra minutes to baking time.

Variations to Customize Lemon Ginger Cookies

• Gluten-Free Lemon Ginger Cookies: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Zinger Cookies: Swap butter with coconut oil, use a flax egg instead of regular egg, and ensure all ingredients are plant-based.
• Spicy Citrus Cookies: Add orange zest alongside lemon zest, increase ground ginger amount, and sprinkle cayenne pepper for extra kick.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of granulated sugar, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining sweet flavor profile.

Serving Ideas for Lemon Ginger Cookies

• Tea Party Pairing: Serve these zesty cookies alongside a steaming cup of chamomile or Earl Grey tea for a delightful afternoon treat that balances the cookie's bright ginger and lemon flavors.
• Dessert Garnish: Top each cookie with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a small dollop of lemon-infused whipped cream to enhance the citrusy notes and add an elegant touch.
• Ice Cream Companion: Crumble these cookies over vanilla or ginger ice cream for a crunchy, refreshing dessert that combines warm spices with cool, creamy textures.
• Holiday Gift Idea: Package these cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon for a homemade, thoughtful gift that showcases your baking skills and spreads delicious cheer.

Lemon Ginger Cookies Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Classic lemon ginger cookies highlight zesty citrus with warm spice notes from fresh ginger. Home bakers can quickly whip these delightful treats for special gatherings or afternoon tea enjoyment.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Primary Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg

Sweeteners and Sugars:

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Flavor Enhancers and Spices:

• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Using an electric mixer, blend butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and aerated.
3. Incorporate egg, freshly grated lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract into the butter mixture until smooth.
4. Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground ginger in a separate mixing bowl.
5. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring until a uniform dough forms.
6. Gently fold finely chopped crystallized ginger into the cookie dough, distributing evenly.
7. Shape dough into small spherical portions, approximately 1-inch in diameter.
8. Roll each dough ball in additional granulated sugar, ensuring complete coverage.
9. Arrange sugar-coated dough balls on prepared baking sheet, spacing them to allow spreading.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for light golden edges as doneness indicator.
11. Allow cookies to rest on baking sheet for 5 minutes to stabilize, then transfer to wire cooling rack.
12. Let cookies cool completely to achieve optimal texture and flavor development.

Notes

• Boost the lemon flavor by adding an extra teaspoon of lemon zest for a more intense citrusy punch.
• Swap crystallized ginger with fresh grated ginger for a sharper, more vibrant spice profile.
• Make these cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 12 mg