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Chewy Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Chewy Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Soft, chewy cookies bursting with bright lemon flavor and the delicate crunch of poppy seeds. Perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or whenever you crave a zesty homemade treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: cookies, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 110
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large lemon zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp juice + 1 tbsp zest)
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp poppy seeds
  • ½ tsp lemon extract optional, for extra flavor
Optional Glaze:
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 –2 tbsp lemon juice

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  3. Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lemon extract (if using). Beat until fully combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
  5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  6. Chill the dough for 15 minutes if it's very soft or your kitchen is warm.
  7. Scoop dough balls using a tablespoon or cookie scoop. Place on baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers still look soft.
  9. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  10. (Optional) Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice to make a glaze. Drizzle over cooled cookies.

Notes

  • For a stronger lemon punch, add a few drops of lemon extract.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • To freeze, scoop dough balls and freeze on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.
  • You can replace lemon with orange zest and juice for a citrus twist.
  • These cookies taste even better the next day as the flavors develop.