Lemon Oatmeal Cookies: A Bright and Chewy Treat

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie with just the right amount of tangy lemon flavor and the hearty texture of oats. These Lemon Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and zesty, with a comforting texture that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of oatmeal cookies or looking for something new, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love These Lemon Oatmeal Cookies

Lemon desserts have a way of brightening your day, and these cookies are no exception. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Fresh and Zesty: The lemon zest and extract add a bold citrus flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness.
• Soft and Chewy: The old-fashioned oats provide a wonderful chewy texture in every bite.
• Simple to Make: Using everyday pantry ingredients, these cookies come together in no time.
• Perfect for Any Time: Whether it’s for an afternoon treat, a gift for friends, or a dessert for a party, these cookies always hit the spot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful cookies:

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
All-purpose flour	1 cup	Base for the cookie dough
Baking soda	¾ teaspoon	Helps the cookies rise slightly
Salt	¼ teaspoon	Enhances the flavors
Butter (softened)	1 cup	Adds richness and moisture
Granulated sugar	1 ⅓ cups, divided	Sweetens the cookies and adds crunch
Lemon extract	1 teaspoon	Adds a concentrated lemon flavor
Grated lemon zest	From 1 medium lemon	Provides natural citrus oils and aroma
Old-fashioned oats (uncooked)	1 ½ cups	Gives the cookies a chewy texture

How to Make Lemon Oatmeal Cookies

1. Preheat Your Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the cookies don’t stick.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Whisk together until evenly mixed and set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar.
• Mix for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
• Add the lemon extract and grated lemon zest. Continue mixing until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter and sugar.
• Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
• Add the old-fashioned oats and fold them into the dough until evenly distributed.

5. Shape the Cookies

• Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each portion into a ball.
• Roll the dough balls in the remaining ⅓ cup of granulated sugar to coat them evenly.
• Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

6. Bake the Cookies

• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are just set.
• Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Why These Cookies Are So Delicious

The secret to these Lemon Oatmeal Cookies lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The lemon zest and extract provide a fresh citrusy kick, while the oats add a heartiness that makes each bite satisfying. Rolling the dough in sugar before baking gives the cookies a subtle crunch and a beautiful, sparkly finish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per cookie (based on 24 cookies):

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 11g

These cookies are a delightful treat that you can enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Tips for the Best Lemon Oatmeal Cookies

1. Use Fresh Lemon Zest

For the brightest flavor, always use freshly grated lemon zest. It adds natural oils that make the cookies burst with citrusy goodness.

2. Don’t Skip the Sugar Coating

Rolling the dough balls in sugar before baking not only adds sweetness but also creates a slightly crispy outer layer.

3. Avoid Overmixing

When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until they’re combined. Overmixing can result in dense cookies.

4. Let Them Cool Properly

Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes helps them firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.

FAQs About Lemon Oatmeal Cookies

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, but keep in mind that quick oats will create a softer texture. Old-fashioned oats are ideal for a heartier chew.

2. How should I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free as well.

4. Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! White chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts make excellent additions to this recipe.

5. What if I don’t have lemon extract?

You can substitute it with fresh lemon juice, but you may need to add slightly more zest to maintain the strong lemon flavor.

6. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This can also help the cookies hold their shape better.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

These Lemon Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful combination of zesty citrus and hearty oats, making them a versatile treat that’s perfect for any time of year. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, they’re customizable to suit your tastes—add your favorite mix-ins or make them gluten-free for a delicious twist.

Final Thoughts: Bake a Batch Today

Ready to brighten your day with a sweet treat? These Lemon Oatmeal Cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face with their perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them all to yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and get baking—you won’t regret it!

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