Lemon Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Lemon Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking tray by lining it with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.

2. Step 2

   In a mixing bowl, grab your electric mixer and cream together the sugar and softened butter on high speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this should take about 2 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Next, gently add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. Step 4

   Remember, we want to keep it light, so avoid overmixing! Now, stir in the fragrant lemon zest and 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.

5. Step 5

   If you have any extra lemon juice, set it aside for the frosting later.

6. Step 6

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.

7. Step 7

   Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the butter-sugar blend, mixing on low speed until just combined.

8. Step 8

   Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.

9. Step 9

   Using a 1 1/2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out 12 delightful dough balls and place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.

10. Step 10

    Keep those dough balls round—no flattening! Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned and the tops show a lovely crackled appearance.

11. Step 11

    Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

12. Step 12

    While the cookies are cooling, let’s whip up some delicious buttercream frosting! In a mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of confectioners' sugar with 1/2 cup of softened butter.

13. Step 13

    Start mixing on low speed until the sugar and butter begin to come together, then gradually increase the speed.

14. Step 14

    When the mixture is mostly combined, pour in the reserved lemon juice and whip until your frosting is creamy and smooth.

15. Step 15

    If you want to adjust the consistency, feel free to add a splash more lemon juice or a bit of milk.

16. Step 16

    Now, it’s time to frost those cooled cookies! Spread the buttercream on as generously as you like, and let the frosting set before you stack or store your delightful lemon cookies.

17. Step 17

    Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors and the smiles they bring!.