These Lemon Raspberry Cookies are a delightful blend of tangy lemon and sweet raspberries, creating a soft and chewy treat perfect for any occasion. With a refreshing citrus flavor and bursts of juicy fruit, these cookies offer a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. They are great for spring and summer gatherings or simply as a comforting homemade dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and Refreshing – The combination of lemon and raspberry creates a fresh and fruity flavor.
Soft and Chewy Texture – These cookies stay moist and delicious with every bite.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward process make this recipe beginner-friendly.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for afternoon tea, picnics, or gifting to loved ones.
Customizable – Easily adaptable with different add-ins like white chocolate chips or nuts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg
Lemon zest
Lemon juice
Vanilla extract
Fresh or frozen raspberries

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the dry ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the butter and sugars – In a separate large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add wet ingredients – Mix in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Combine the dry and wet ingredients – Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the raspberries gently to avoid breaking them too much.
Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 18-20 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

White Chocolate Twist – Add white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast to the tart flavors.
Glazed Finish – Drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top for extra sweetness.
Nutty Addition – Mix in chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch.
Dairy-Free Option – Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative.
Gluten-Free Version – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator – Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing – Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Reheating – Warm in the microwave for a few seconds to refresh their softness.

FAQs

How do I prevent the raspberries from making the dough too wet?

Use fresh raspberries or frozen ones that have been slightly thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.

Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon juice?

Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with ½ teaspoon of lemon extract for a more concentrated flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, but do not thaw them completely before folding them into the dough to prevent excess moisture.

How do I make these cookies chewier?

Slightly underbake them and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack.

Can I add a lemon glaze?

Absolutely! Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice and drizzle over the cookies once they have cooled.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemons provide the best flavor.

How do I make these cookies softer?

Use more brown sugar than granulated sugar, as brown sugar adds moisture.

Can I add a different fruit?

Yes, blueberries or chopped strawberries would work well in this recipe.

What’s the best way to store these cookies for gifting?

Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container or decorative tin to keep them fresh.

Conclusion

Lemon Raspberry Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tangy brightness of lemons with the sweetness of raspberries. They are easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Try them today and share the joy of homemade goodness!