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Imagine biting into a cookie that’s soft, buttery, and bursting with the zesty freshness of lemons and the juicy sweetness of blueberries. Sounds irresistible, doesn’t it? That’s exactly what Lemon Blueberry Cookies bring to your table! These cookies are the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who just loves a good homemade dessert, this recipe will walk you through how to make Lemon Blueberry Cookies that are as gorgeous as they are delicious. Packed with fresh ingredients and customizable to suit various dietary needs (hello, gluten-free and vegan options!), this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your baking repertoire.
And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! From family gatherings to cozy tea breaks, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit. So, let’s grab those lemons and blueberries and get baking!
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make Lemon Blueberry Cookies:
For the Cookies:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (or a gluten-free 1:1 substitute for Gluten Free Lemon Blueberry Cookies)
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (softened)
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup
- Brown sugar: 1/4 cup (for added moisture)
- Egg: 1 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh lemon zest: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- Blueberries: 1 cup (fresh or frozen)
- White chocolate chips (optional): 1/2 cup
For the Lemon Glaze (optional):
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup
- Fresh lemon juice: 2-3 tablespoons
Instructions to Make Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Follow these steps to bake your perfect batch of blueberry lemon cookies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The mixture may look slightly curdled, but that’s okay.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries and white chocolate chips (if using). If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw to prevent bleeding.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If desired, drizzle with lemon glaze made by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Blueberry Cookies
- Zesting Tips: Use a microplane to zest your lemon without reaching the bitter white pith.
- Prevent Blueberry Bleeding: Toss blueberries in a little flour before folding them into the dough to prevent them from staining the cookies.
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid overpacking your measuring cup, which can lead to dense cookies.
What to Serve with Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Lemon Blueberry Cookies are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with other treats and beverages to create a more indulgent experience. Here are some delightful ways to serve these cookies:
1. With Tea or Coffee
The bright and citrusy flavors of Lemon Blueberry Cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
- Tea: Earl Grey, chamomile, or green tea are excellent options, as their subtle flavors complement the cookies without overpowering them. For a citrusy twist, try serving the cookies with a lemon-infused tea.
- Coffee: A creamy latte or a simple black coffee provides a rich, bold contrast to the tangy and sweet notes of the cookies.
2. With Ice Cream or Sorbet
Transform your cookies into a decadent dessert by serving them with a scoop of ice cream or sorbet.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla, lemon, or even blueberry ice cream makes a perfect pairing. For an extra special treat, sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies to create a homemade ice cream sandwich.
- Sorbet: Lemon or raspberry sorbet enhances the fruity flavors and provides a refreshing, palate-cleansing contrast to the buttery cookie base.
3. As Part of a Dessert Platter
Lemon Blueberry Cookies are a fantastic addition to a dessert platter for gatherings or parties. Pair them with:
- Fresh fruit, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- Other cookies, like chocolate chip or shortbread, for variety.
- Small pastries or mini tarts for a diverse selection of treats.
4. With Yogurt or Whipped Cream
For a light and refreshing option, serve the cookies with a dollop of Greek yogurt or lightly sweetened whipped cream.
- Layer the cookies with yogurt and fresh blueberries in a glass to create a simple yet elegant parfait.
- Whipped cream adds a touch of creaminess that complements the bright, tangy flavor of the cookies.
5. Paired with Lemonade or Sparkling Water
To keep things light and refreshing, serve the cookies with a chilled glass of homemade lemonade or sparkling water.
- Lemonade: The zesty lemon flavor in the drink will echo the citrus notes in the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing.
- Sparkling Water: Add a splash of lemon or blueberry syrup to sparkling water for a subtly sweet and bubbly drink.
6. For Breakfast or Brunch
Who says cookies are just for dessert? Lemon Blueberry Cookies make a delightful addition to a breakfast or brunch spread. Serve them alongside:
- A selection of muffins, scones, or croissants.
- A fruit salad featuring a mix of seasonal berries and melons.
- A yogurt parfait bar with granola and fresh fruit toppings.
By pairing Lemon Blueberry Cookies with complementary flavors and textures, you can turn these simple yet delicious treats into the star of any occasion!
Variations of Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Lemon Blueberry Cookies are versatile and can be easily customized to suit different preferences or dietary needs. Here are some exciting variations to try:
Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Cookies
For those following a gluten-free diet, you can easily make these cookies without sacrificing flavor or texture. Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend, which is designed to mimic the texture of regular flour. Be sure to check that the baking powder you’re using is also gluten-free. The result will be a batch of soft and chewy gluten-free Lemon Blueberry Cookies, just as delicious as the traditional version!
Vegan Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Making these cookies vegan is simple! Replace the butter with a plant-based butter or margarine, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) instead of the regular egg. These vegan Lemon Blueberry Cookies will be just as soft and flavorful, with all the citrusy zing and berry sweetness you love. If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly treat, this variation is a perfect choice!
Add Nuts for Extra Crunch
For a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor, try adding chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the dough. About 1/4 cup of chopped nuts will add a lovely texture contrast while complementing the blueberries and lemon. This variation adds a touch of richness and a satisfying bite to your cookies.
Coconut Lemon Blueberry Cookies
For a tropical twist, incorporate shredded coconut into your dough. Adding about 1/4 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut will give these cookies a delightful chewiness and a mild coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with the blueberries and lemon. The result will be a refreshing cookie with an island-inspired taste!
Low-Sugar Lemon Blueberry Cookies
If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can make a lower-sugar version of these cookies by using a sugar substitute, such as monk fruit sweetener, erythritol, or stevia. Depending on the substitute you choose, you may need to adjust the quantity, so be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. This variation will let you enjoy the bright flavors of lemon and blueberry with fewer calories.
Lemon Blueberry Cookies with White Chocolate Chips
For an added indulgence, fold in white chocolate chips. The creamy sweetness of white chocolate complements the tartness of the lemon and the juiciness of the blueberries, creating a decadent treat. If you love a sweet and fruity dessert with a luxurious twist, this variation is for you!
Lemon Blueberry Cookies with Lemon Glaze
If you want to take your Lemon Blueberry Cookies to the next level, drizzle them with a tangy lemon glaze. To make the glaze, mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle over your cooled cookies. This extra step adds a burst of lemony sweetness and an elegant finish to the cookies.
These variations allow you to experiment with different flavors and dietary preferences, making Lemon Blueberry Cookies even more exciting to bake and share. Feel free to combine multiple variations for a truly unique version that fits your taste!
FAQs While Making Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes! Frozen blueberries work well. Do not thaw them before adding to the dough to prevent excess moisture.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies can result from overly warm dough or insufficient leavening. Chill your dough before baking and ensure your baking powder is fresh.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Scoop the dough into portions, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Can I make these cookies without a mixer?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients by hand using a whisk and a sturdy spatula. Cream the butter and sugars thoroughly until smooth, and be patient when combining the wet and dry ingredients.
How do I store Lemon Blueberry Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use dried blueberries instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, dried blueberries can be used, but they will provide a chewier texture. To soften them slightly, soak the dried blueberries in warm water or lemon juice for 10-15 minutes before folding them into the dough.
Substitutes
- Butter: Replace with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Egg: Use a chia or flax egg for an egg-free alternative.
- Lemon: If lemons are unavailable, substitute with lime zest and juice for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition of Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Each Lemon Blueberry Cookie contains approximately:
- Calories: 120-150
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
These values may vary depending on the size of your cookies and any ingredient substitutions you make. For a lower-calorie option, consider reducing the sugar or skipping the optional glaze.
Mastering how to make Lemon Blueberry Cookies will bring joy to your kitchen and your taste buds. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. So preheat that oven and let the baking begin!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make Lemon Blueberry Cookies:
For the Cookies:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (or a gluten-free 1:1 substitute for Gluten Free Lemon Blueberry Cookies)
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (softened)
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup
- Brown sugar: 1/4 cup (for added moisture)
- Egg: 1 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh lemon zest: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- Blueberries: 1 cup (fresh or frozen)
- White chocolate chips (optional): 1/2 cup
For the Lemon Glaze (optional):
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup
- Fresh lemon juice: 2-3 tablespoons
Instructions
Instructions to Make Lemon Blueberry Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The mixture may look slightly curdled, but that’s okay.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries and white chocolate chips (if using). If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw to prevent bleeding.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If desired, drizzle with lemon glaze made by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Lemon Blueberry Cookies
- Zesting Tips: Use a microplane to zest your lemon without reaching the bitter white pith.
- Prevent Blueberry Bleeding: Toss blueberries in a little flour before folding them into the dough to prevent them from staining the cookies.
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid overpacking your measuring cup, which can lead to dense cookies.