Extra Special Lemon Drop Cookies Recipe

Name: Extra Special Lemon Drop Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: ½ cup one stick unsalted butter; ¼ cup shortening; ¼ cup cream cheese; 3 cups granulated sugar; 3 lemons, zest of; 3 egg yolks; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ½ teaspoon vanilla; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1 dash salt; 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

Servings: persons

½ cup one stick unsalted butter
¼ cup shortening
¼ cup cream cheese
3 cups granulated sugar
3 lemons, zest of
3 egg yolks
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 dash salt
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1
Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
2
In the bowl of a mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter, shortening and cream cheese at medium speed until smooth, about two minutes.
3
In the bowl of a food processor, combine granulated sugar and lemon zest.
4
Pulse several times to combine.
5
Add two cups of lemon/sugar combination, baking soda, cream of tartar and salt to the mixer bowl and beat for several minutes to combine.
6
Add eggs yolks, lemon juice and vanilla and beat to combine.
7
Turn mixer to slow speed and gradually add flour.
8
Roll dough into 1 balls, roll balls in remaining lemon/sugar mixture and place 2 apart, on a baking sheet fitted with parchment paper or a silpat.
9
Bake 12 14 minutes until just barely browned.
10
Note: The key to make these cookies lemony special is combining granulated sugar and lemon zest in a food processor.
11
This sugar is used both in the dough and to roll the cookie in before baking.

1163

kcal

Calories

Fat

200

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.
Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: ½ cup one stick unsalted butter, ¼ cup shortening, ¼ cup cream cheese, 3 cups granulated sugar, and more.

Yes, Extra Special Lemon Drop Cookies falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Extra Special Lemon Drop Cookies

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions