There’s something magical about the aroma of lemon zest drifting through the kitchen—fresh, bright, and a little nostalgic. This lemon cake cookies recipe brings together the tender crumb of a cake with the ease and portability of a cookie.
These are the kind of treats that vanish quickly at family gatherings, tea parties, or even late-night cravings.
Growing up, I watched my Nonna transform the simplest ingredients into joy-filled bites. While lemon wasn’t always a staple in her Tuscan kitchen, she loved experimenting with citrus for a “sunshine” dessert—her words, not mine.
These cookies are my ode to her cheerful spirit, with a modern twist that makes them ideal for today’s sweet-tooth needs.
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Cake Cookies
- Soft, cake-like texture
- Bold lemon flavor with zest and juice
- Easy, one-bowl batter
- Perfect for all seasons
- Great for gifting or entertaining
Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pastry pro, this lemon cookie recipe is your new go-to for bright, lemony joy in cookie form.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a batch of these dreamy lemon cake cookies:
- 1 box lemon cake mix (around 15.25 oz / 432g)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 large lemon)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Tip: Want a stronger lemon punch? Add 1/2 tsp of lemon extract to the mix.
Prep Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended for best texture)
- Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: ~12 cookies
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with even browning.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
Mix until fully combined—the dough will be thick and sticky, like a soft playdough.
Step 3: Chill the Dough (Optional)
For thicker, fluffier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and intensifies the flavor.
Step 4: Roll in Sugar
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie. Roll each ball lightly in your hands, then coat it generously in powdered sugar. This creates that beautiful crinkle top when baked.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look crinkled but not browned.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. They’ll firm up as they cool but stay wonderfully soft and cakey inside.
Variations & Twists
- Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting: Pipe or spread a soft lemony frosting on cooled cookies.
- White Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup to the dough for a creamy contrast.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free lemon cake mix—just check consistency before baking.
How To Serve Lemon Cake Cookies
- Pair with iced tea or a lavender latte for springtime vibes.
- Stack and wrap in clear bags for party favors or bake sales.
- Serve on a dessert platter alongside shortbread and biscotti.
Storage Tips
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months—just roll in sugar before baking.
FAQs About Lemon Cake Cookies
Can I make these without cake mix?
Yes! You can substitute with 1 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add lemon flavoring as above.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Make sure your dough is chilled. Warm dough spreads more. Also, avoid greasing the pan—stick with parchment.
How can I make them extra lemony?
Add lemon extract or double the zest! You can even drizzle with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Final Thoughts
These lemon cake cookies are like sunshine in a bite—tangy, sweet, and oh-so-soft. Whether you’re baking for a picnic or prepping for the holidays, they’ll always bring smiles.
Try the recipe, make it your own, and don’t forget to share your results with us in the comments or on social media! For more inspiration, check out our sweet and salty Spanish Peanuts or bake up a batch of chewy Coconut Pecan Cookies—both are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.