Name: Lemon Raspberry Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (not thawed if frozen); Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Why You’ll Love Lemon Raspberry Cookies Recipe

These cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie. The combination of zesty lemon and juicy raspberries creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The texture is soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, making them irresistible from the first bite. They’re easy to make, require simple ingredients, and are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Ingredients

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

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Gently fold in the raspberries, being careful not to crush them too much.
Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 18–20 cookies.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

White Chocolate Lemon Raspberry Cookies: Add white chocolate chips for a creamy sweetness that pairs beautifully with lemon and raspberry.
Glazed Cookies: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top for extra citrus flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and a flax egg to make the cookies completely plant-based.
Berry Mix: Try a mix of raspberries and blueberries for a berry-packed version.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. To enjoy, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature or warm them in a microwave for 10–15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

FAQs

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

Use fresh raspberries when possible, or if using frozen, do not thaw them before folding into the dough.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Why did my cookies turn out too soft?

They may have been underbaked. Ensure the edges are lightly golden before removing from the oven.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, portion the dough into scoops and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Are these cookies overly sweet?

No, the tartness of the raspberries and lemon balances the sweetness nicely.

Can I use raspberry jam instead of fresh berries?

It’s not recommended, as jam will alter the texture of the dough. Use whole berries for best results.

What type of sugar works best?

A combination of granulated and brown sugar creates a perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling isn’t required, but it can help prevent spreading and intensify flavor.

Can I make these cookies larger or smaller?

Yes, adjust the scoop size accordingly. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as well.

How do I zest a lemon properly?

Use a microplane or fine grater, avoiding the white pith underneath the yellow skin to prevent bitterness.

Conclusion

Lemon Raspberry Cookies are the perfect treat when you want something sweet, tart, and refreshing. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a bright, fruity snack, these cookies are easy to make and full of flavor. With plenty of options for variations and storage, they’re a versatile addition to any cookie lover’s collection.

Lemon Raspberry Cookies