Lemon Pixie Cookies: A Burst of Citrus Delight

If you love the tangy sweetness of lemons, these Lemon Pixie Cookies are sure to become your new favorite treat. Soft, chewy, and bursting with vibrant lemon flavor, these cookies are a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something citrusy, this recipe is easy, quick, and guaranteed to impress.

What Makes Lemon Pixie Cookies Special?

Lemon Pixie Cookies combine the refreshing tang of lemons with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their powdered sugar coating not only adds sweetness but also gives them a magical “pixie dust” appearance. These cookies are:

1. Easy to Make: The recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
2. Gluten-Free Friendly: Made with almond flour, these cookies are naturally gluten-free. You can also try a nut-free variation using the linked Lemon Meltaway recipe.
3. Customizable: Whether you prefer a stronger lemon flavor or a touch of vanilla, this recipe is easy to tweak to your taste.
4. Perfectly Balanced: The bright citrus notes of lemon zest and juice pair beautifully with the subtle sweetness of powdered sugar.

Ingredients for Lemon Pixie Cookies

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour: Adds a nutty flavor and keeps the cookies soft and tender. (For nut-free options, try Lemon Meltaways.)
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar or erythritol: Provides sweetness without overpowering the lemon.
• Zest of one lemon: Packs in bold, natural lemon flavor.
• Scant 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the citrus flavor.
• 1/8 tsp baking soda: Gives the cookies a slight lift.

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter or coconut oil: Adds richness and keeps the cookies moist.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Compliments the lemon flavor with a hint of warmth.
• 2 tsp lemon juice: Intensifies the citrusy flavor.

Optional:

• Powdered sugar or erythritol: For rolling the cookies before baking, giving them their signature powdered look.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

• Begin by melting the butter or coconut oil. This ensures it mixes evenly with the other ingredients.
• In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, powdered sugar, lemon zest, salt, and baking soda.
• Add the melted butter or oil, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.

2. Shape the Cookies

• Roll the dough into small balls. For chewier cookies, refrigerate the dough balls until cold or overnight. Chilling the dough also makes it easier to handle and prevents spreading during baking.
• If desired, roll the balls in additional powdered sugar or erythritol to give them a light, sugary coating.

3. Bake to Perfection

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
• Arrange the dough balls on the prepared tray, leaving some space between them. Bake for 10 minutes.
• While the cookies are still warm, use a spoon to gently press them into cookie shapes.
• Let the cookies cool completely before handling. They’ll be delicate at first but will firm up as they cool.

Tips for the Best Lemon Pixie Cookies

1. Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest give the cookies their vibrant flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice for the best results.
2. Don’t Skip Chilling: If you prefer chewy cookies, chilling the dough is essential. It also helps the cookies retain their shape while baking.
3. Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar or erythritol based on your preference for sweetness.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Add a drop of almond extract for a twist or increase the lemon zest for extra citrusy goodness.
5. Use High-Quality Almond Flour: Fine almond flour works best for a smooth dough and consistent texture.

Why Lemon Pixie Cookies Are Perfect for Any Occasion

These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their light and zesty flavor makes them ideal for spring and summer gatherings, while their powdered sugar coating gives them a festive touch perfect for holiday cookie platters. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for an elegant treat, or enjoy them as a quick snack whenever you need a citrusy pick-me-up.

Storing and Freezing Lemon Pixie Cookies

To Store:

• Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

To Freeze:

• Freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):

• Calories: 80
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 1.5g
• Fat: 7g
• Sugar: 1g
• Fiber: 1g

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Final Thoughts

Lemon Pixie Cookies are a delightful blend of tangy and sweet, perfect for satisfying your citrus cravings. Their soft, chewy texture and powdered sugar coating make them both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re baking for yourself, sharing with friends, or adding to a dessert table, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.

So grab your lemons, preheat your oven, and let the magic of Lemon Pixie Cookies brighten your day. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag them with #LemonPixieCookies—we’d love to see your sweet masterpieces