Recipe: Smooth and Tangy Lemon Oatmeal Cookies

Introduction

The humble cookie, with its homey aroma and comforting allure, holds a special place in our hearts. Among the meals that evoke cherished memories of childhood, lemon oatmeal cookies stand out as a delightful modern twist on a classic Midwestern treat. Combining the heartiness of rolled oats with the zest of lemon, these cookies are a testament to the simplicity and brilliance of traditional baking.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup finely ground sugar
• 1 and 1/3 cups packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• Zest of one lemon
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup traditional rolled oats

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and line baking pans with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt).
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix until smooth.
4. Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the rolled oats until evenly distributed.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for the cookies to spread while baking.
8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a minute before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Variations

• Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty flavor.
• Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness.
• Store cookies in an airtight container for freshness.
• Customize the recipe with seasonal spices like nutmeg or cinnamon.

FAQs

Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?
A: Stored in an airtight container, these cookies can stay fresh for three to four days.

Q: Can I customize this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different add-ins or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Q: What’s the best way to enjoy these cookies?
A: These cookies are delicious on their own or paired with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or even with vanilla ice cream and fresh berries for a decadent treat.