Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully incorporated. The lemon zest will provide a refreshing citrusy fragrance, while the lemon juice adds a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the sugar.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed or stir with a spatula until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix; just blend until the dough forms.
Step 6: Fold in Cherries and White Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chopped dried cherries and white chocolate chips (if using). The cherries will add a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness, while the white chocolate chips complement the tartness of the lemon with their creamy sweetness. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The cookies will spread a little, so giving them space is important. For a more uniform shape, you can gently flatten the dough balls with the back of a spoon.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden, and the centers are set but still soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as they can quickly turn from soft to crispy.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them firm up without becoming too fragile.
Step 10: Prepare the Lemon Glaze (Optional)
If you want to add a citrusy finish, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies using a spoon or a piping bag. This extra step gives the cookies a bright, tangy flavor and a shiny finish.
Tips and Variations:
- Fresh Cherries: If you’re using fresh cherries instead of dried, be sure to pit and chop them before folding them into the dough. Fresh cherries will add extra juiciness and may cause the dough to spread more, so reduce the baking time slightly.
- Lemon-Blueberry Twist: For a different twist on this cookie, you can swap out the cherries for fresh or dried blueberries. The flavor combination of lemon and blueberry is equally delightful.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make the cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
- Vegan Version: To make these cookies vegan, replace the butter with dairy-free butter, and use an egg replacer (such as flax egg or applesauce) instead of the egg.
Serving Suggestions:
- These cookies are perfect for a holiday treat, a picnic, or an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
- If you’re serving them for a special occasion, like a brunch or a party, the bright lemon glaze will add an elegant touch.
Conclusion
Delicious Lemon Cherry Cookies are the perfect combination of tart citrus and sweet cherries, making them a refreshing treat to enjoy at any time of the year. Whether you’re preparing them for a special event or simply for a cozy snack, they will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire. With their tender texture and burst of fruity flavor, these cookies are sure to brighten your day with every bite!
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