Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips:
- Gently fold in the chopped dried cherries and white chocolate chips (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 2: Bake the Cookies
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop the Dough:
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
- Cool the Cookies:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
- Mix the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of lemon juice to reach the desired consistency.
- Add Lemon Zest:
- Stir in the lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor (optional).
Step 4: Glaze the Cookies
- Drizzle the Glaze:
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the tops using a spoon or a piping bag.
- Let the Glaze Set:
- Allow the glaze to set for about 10-15 minutes before serving or storing the cookies.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature for the best results.
- Fresh Lemon: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
- Even Baking: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time to ensure even baking.
Variations
- Cherry-Almond: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to the dough and sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the glaze.
- Lemon-Blueberry: Substitute dried blueberries for the dried cherries for a different fruity twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make these cookies gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
- With Tea: Pair these cookies with a cup of hot tea or iced tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Gift Giving: Package these cookies in a decorative tin or box for a lovely homemade gift.
- Picnic or Party: Serve these cookies at picnics, parties, or any gathering where a refreshing, sweet treat is appreciated.
Conclusion
Luscious Cherry Lemon Cookies are a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors that are perfect for any occasion. This detailed recipe ensures a perfect result every time, with soft, chewy cookies bursting with the flavors of lemon and cherry. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious cookies with family and friends.