There’s something irresistibly refreshing about the bright, zesty flavor of lemon, especially when it comes to baked goods. If you’ve ever wondered how to capture that sunshine-filled taste in a cookie, look no further than these delightful Lemon Cookies (also known as Lemon Whippersnaps). With their soft, chewy texture and a burst of lemony goodness, these cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, thanks to a simple combination of just a few ingredients. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover why you’ll be whipping up batch after batch!
Why You’ll Keep Making It
These Lemon Cookies (also known as Lemon Whippersnaps) are not just delicious; they are a breeze to prepare. With a base of lemon cake mix that includes pudding, the cookies come out soft and fluffy every time. The addition of Cool Whip adds a unique texture that makes them melt-in-your-mouth delightful. Plus, who can resist the bright and cheerful flavor of lemon? Perfect for summer picnics, holiday gatherings, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, these cookies are bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
What We’re Using
To make these delightful Lemon Cookies (also known as Lemon Whippersnaps), you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 15 oz package lemon cake mix – This is the star of the show, providing a rich lemon flavor and moisture.
- 2 cups Cool Whip – This adds an airy texture and keeps the cookies soft.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten – This helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 tbsp lemon zest – For an extra punch of citrus flavor.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice – Freshly squeezed is best for that vibrant taste.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – For rolling the cookies and adding a sweet finish.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before you get started, gather the following kitchen essentials:
- Mixing bowl – To combine all the ingredients.
- Whisk or spatula – For mixing the batter smoothly.
- Baking sheet – To bake your cookies on.
- Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – For portioning out the dough evenly.
Lemon Cookies (also known as Lemon Whippersnaps) in Steps
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, Cool Whip, and the lightly beaten egg. Use a whisk or spatula to mix until all ingredients are well combined. The batter will be thick and sticky.
Step 3: Add the Zest and Juice
Next, fold in the lemon zest and lemon juice to the mixture. This step enhances the lemon flavor, making your cookies taste even more refreshing.
Step 4: Chill the Dough (Optional)
For even better results, consider chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the cookies retain their shape while baking.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Roll in Powdered Sugar
Before baking, roll each cookie dough ball in powdered sugar. This not only adds sweetness but also gives your cookies a lovely, snowy appearance once baked.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Adaptations for Special Diets
If you have specific dietary needs, here are some adaptations you can make:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free lemon cake mix to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Cool Whip with a non-dairy whipped topping.
- Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute in place of powdered sugar for rolling.
Notes on Ingredients
When selecting your ingredients for these Lemon Cookies (also known as Lemon Whippersnaps), freshness is key. Opt for fresh lemons for the zest and juice, as they provide the best flavor. The lemon cake mix can usually be found in the baking aisle of your grocery store, and it’s important to check that it doesn’t contain any additives you want to avoid.
Make-Ahead & Storage
These cookies are perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Quick Q&A
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While lemon is refreshing, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or even chocolate for a different twist.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are set, and the tops look slightly cracked. They may appear soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips?
Yes! Feel free to fold in some white chocolate chips or even blueberries to enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies.
What should I serve with these cookies?
These Lemon Cookies (also known as Lemon Whippersnaps) pair beautifully with a cup of tea or lemonade. For a full meal, consider serving them alongside Lemon Ricotta Blueberry Pancakes With Warm Syrup for a delightful brunch.
Final Thoughts
Baking these Lemon Cookies (also known as Lemon Whippersnaps) is not just about the end product; it’s about the joy of creating something delicious and sharing it with others. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. With their bright flavor and fluffy texture, you may just find yourself making them again and again. So grab your ingredients, get your oven preheated, and let the baking begin!
Lemon Cookies (also known as Lemon Whippersnaps)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, Cool Whip, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Step 3: Fold in the lemon zest and lemon juice to enhance the lemon flavor.
- Step 4: Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes (optional).
- Step 5: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 6: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 7: Roll each cookie dough ball in powdered sugar before baking.
- Step 8: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and tops look slightly cracked.
- Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor in the zest and juice.
- Chill the dough for better shaping and texture.
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
