Easy Lemon Zucchini Cookies Recipe
These Easy Lemon Zucchini Cookies combine the freshness of lemon zest and juice with the subtle moisture of shredded zucchini to create soft, flavorful cookies perfect for a light dessert or snack. The tender crumb and bright citrus glaze make these cookies a delightful treat that’s both refreshing and comforting.
- Author: Lisa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Cookies:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp grated lemon zest
- 1 cup peeled, shredded zucchini
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a cookie sheet by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Whisk well to evenly distribute the ingredients, then set aside.
- Cream Butter, Sugar, and Incorporate Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream 3/4 cup softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer or sturdy spoon. Add 1 large egg and 1 tsp grated lemon zest, continuing to beat for another 2-3 minutes until well blended. Zesting the lemon directly over the bowl helps capture all fragrant oils.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients, Stir in Zucchini: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Fold in 1 cup peeled, shredded zucchini evenly with a spatula.
- Portion and Bake the Cookies: Drop cookie dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto the prepared sheet, spacing cookies a couple of inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges and tops are lightly browned. Remove and cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slightly underbaking them will yield softer cookies.
- Prepare and Apply the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix 1 cup confectioners’ sugar with 1 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice and 1/2 tsp lemon zest until smooth. Once cookies are completely cooled, drizzle or brush the glaze over the top for a bright, sweet finish.
Notes
- Use peeled zucchini to prevent extra moisture that can affect cookie texture.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies tender and soft.
- Underbaking slightly is recommended for a moister cookie.
- The lemon glaze can be adjusted by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: lemon zucchini cookies, easy zucchini cookies, lemon dessert, soft cookies, zucchini dessert