Lemon Tea Cookies

Lemon Tea Cookies, also known as Lemon Biscuits, are delightful treats that combine the tangy flavor of lemon with the buttery goodness of a classic cookie. These cookies have a delicate texture and are often enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a light snack. Let’s explore the history, facts, and interesting information about Lemon Tea Cookies.

History:

• Lemon Tea Cookies have a long history and are believed to have originated in Europe, particularly in England and Scotland.
• They were traditionally served during afternoon tea gatherings and became popular in the 19th century.
• Over time, Lemon Tea Cookies spread across different countries and became a beloved treat in various cultures.

Facts:

• Lemon Tea Cookies are typically made with simple ingredients such as butter, sugar, flour, and lemon zest.
• The lemon zest provides a vibrant citrus flavor and aroma to the cookies.
• Lemon Tea Cookies have a delicate and crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.
• These cookies are often shaped into round discs or formed into crescent shapes.
• Lemon Tea Cookies can be enjoyed plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with a lemon glaze for added sweetness.

Interesting Information:

• Lemon Tea Cookies are versatile and can be customized with other flavors such as lavender, thyme, or almond.
• They are often served during special occasions like bridal showers, baby showers, and tea parties.
• Lemon Tea Cookies pair well with a variety of teas, including black tea, green tea, and herbal teas.
• The zesty lemon flavor in these cookies provides a refreshing and uplifting taste experience.
• Lemon Tea Cookies are loved by people of all ages and make a delightful addition to any dessert table or cookie jar.

Whether you’re a fan of tangy citrus flavors or simply enjoy a classic buttery cookie, Lemon Tea Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your taste buds. Try baking a batch yourself and savor the delightful combination of lemon and sweetness in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Use a fork to gently press down on each cookie to create a crisscross pattern.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Enjoy these delightful Lemon Tea Cookies with a cup of tea or as a tasty treat any time of the day!

Note: You can adjust the amount of lemon zest and juice according to your preference for a more or less pronounced lemon flavor.

Bonus tips to help you make delicious Lemon Tea Cookies:

1. Use fresh lemons: The zest and juice of fresh lemons will give your cookies the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice or pre-packaged lemon zest.
2. Soften the butter: Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar. Softened butter incorporates better with the other ingredients, resulting in a softer and more tender cookie.
3. Don’t overmix the dough: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until everything is well incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
4. Chill the dough: After you’ve mixed the dough, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes or until firm. Chilled dough is easier to handle and results in cookies that spread less during baking.
5. Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even browning.
6. Bake in batches: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Leave enough space between the cookies to allow for spreading during baking.
7. Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they’re in the oven. Remove them when the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
8. Cool completely before glazing: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Applying the glaze to warm cookies can cause it to melt and become runny.
9. Store properly: Once the cookies are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.

With these tips, you’ll be able to make scrumptious Lemon Tea Cookies that are bursting with bright lemon flavor. Enjoy!