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### Instructions:
#### 1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking.
#### 2. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **cornstarch**, **baking powder**, and **salt**. The cornstarch helps to create a soft, delicate texture in the cookies, so don’t skip this ingredient. Set the bowl aside.
#### 3. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**:
In a large bowl, beat together the **softened butter** and **granulated sugar** using an electric mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The fluffy consistency of the butter and sugar will help give the cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
#### 4. **Add the Wet Ingredients**:
Add the **egg**, **lemon juice**, **lemon zest**, and **vanilla extract** to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined. The fresh lemon juice and zest will infuse the dough with that bright, citrusy flavor that makes these cookies so special.
#### 5. **Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients**:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but not overly wet.
#### 6. **Shape the Dough**:
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, scoop out small portions of dough, about **1 tablespoon** each. Roll the dough into balls between your hands. Next, generously coat each dough ball in **powdered sugar**, making sure they’re well covered. This powdered sugar coating will help create the signature “wrinkled” look as the cookies bake.
#### 7. **Bake the Cookies**:
Place the powdered-sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about **2 inches** apart. Bake in the preheated oven for **10-12 minutes**, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The tops will crack and form the signature wrinkles as they bake, giving them their unique appearance.
#### 8. **Cool and Enjoy**:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will have a soft, chewy interior with a slight crispness on the outside.
### Why You’ll Love Lemon Wrinkle Cookies:
1. **Refreshing Lemon Flavor**: The bright citrus flavor from the fresh lemon juice and zest gives these cookies a refreshing twist that’s perfect for spring or summer. The tangy lemon flavor balances out the sweetness of the sugar for a delightful treat.
2. **Unique Appearance**: The “wrinkle” effect that happens when the cookies bake makes these cookies not only delicious but visually appealing as well. The cracks in the surface are a signature feature, making these cookies stand out on any dessert tray.
3. **Soft and Chewy Texture**: These cookies have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, thanks to the cornstarch and the proper butter-to-sugar ratio. The powdered sugar coating also contributes to the cookies’ tenderness and delicate crunch.
4. **Simple to Make**: These cookies are made with just a handful of simple ingredients, and the process is straightforward. No need for chilling the dough or complicated steps—just mix, roll, bake, and enjoy!
5. **Perfect for All Occasions**: Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a sweet snack to enjoy with your coffee, **Lemon Wrinkle Cookies** are versatile enough for any time of year. They make great gifts, too!
### Tips for Success:
– **Don’t Skip the Powdered Sugar Coating**: The powdered sugar is essential for creating the wrinkled appearance of the cookies. Be generous with coating the dough balls, as this helps create the distinctive crackled look as the cookies bake.
– **Use Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest**: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to achieving that vibrant, fresh flavor in your cookies. Bottled lemon juice may not provide the same level of zest and tanginess.
– **Adjust the Baking Time**: Depending on your oven and the size of your dough balls, baking times may vary slightly. Keep an eye on the cookies, and remember, they should be lightly golden on the edges with cracks across the top.
### Conclusion:
**Lemon Wrinkle Cookies** are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness. The combination of fresh lemon juice, zest, and powdered sugar creates a light and flavorful cookie that’s both visually stunning and utterly irresistible. They are a delightful treat for any occasion, from casual snacks to fancy dessert tables.
With their soft texture, refreshing lemon flavor, and fun wrinkled appearance, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So, the next time you’re craving something sweet, zesty, and easy to make, whip up a batch of **Lemon Wrinkle Cookies**—they’re sure to be a hit!
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