1-Preheat and Prepare: Getting started is simple and exciting, just like prepping for a fun baking session. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper or giving them a light grease. This step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your cookies don’t stick.

2-Preheat and Prepare: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until they’re well mixed. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly for that perfect rise. For more ideas on tasty treats, check out this recipe for delicious oatmeal cookie variations that pair well with citrus flavors.

3-Mix the Dough: Now, in a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy this usually takes a few minutes and makes the cookies extra tender. Beat in the egg next, followed by the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest for that zesty kick we’ve all been waiting for.

4-Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to keep the dough from getting tough. Overmixing is a common slip, but we’ll avoid that for cookies that stay soft and chewy.

5-Bake and Cool: Scoop the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Pop them in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden color but the centers stay soft.

6-Bake and Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Once they’re cool, whip up the icing by mixing the confectioners sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth, then spread or dip it over the cookies for a glossy finish.

7-Bake and Cool: If you’re adapting for dietary needs, like vegan options, use plant-based butter and egg substitutes, and tweak baking time if needed. For a table of common substitutions, here’s a quick reference: