citrus is winter’s little bright spot, the standout amongst the bleakness of winter produce.  & while the bright flavors & tartness are reminiscent of sunny days & warmer weather, citrus fruits are really at their peak right now.

so grab some lemons & get baking!  these soft & chewy lemon sugar cookies are sure to brighten up any winter day.

LEMON SUGAR COOKIES
makes about 3 dozen cookies

2 3/4 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 large lemons, zested
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup granulated sugar, for rolling the cookies

preheat oven to 350°.  line at least two baking sheets with parchment paper & set aside.

in a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder & salt.  set aside.

using a stand mixer with paddle attachment, or hand mixer, beat the butter & sugar together at medium speed until creamy & smooth.  add the lemon zest, egg, vanilla & lemon juice & continue mixing until well combined.  gradually add in the flour mixture until combined.

roll dough, by the tablespoon-full, by hand into little balls, then roll through the reserved granulated sugar.  place on prepared baking sheets & bake for 8-10 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the cookies are set & slightly golden.  let sit on the baking sheets for a few minutes to firm up before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

from two peas & their pod