The soft texture and bright citrusy zing of these Lemon Crinkle Cookies make them a standout treat for any season. With a crackly powdered sugar exterior and a chewy center bursting with fresh lemon flavor, these cookies are perfect for tea parties, casual get-togethers, or just as a pick-me-up on a sunny afternoon. These cookies are completely vegan and can be easily made gluten-free, making them ideal for nearly any dietary preference. Best of all, the simple ingredient list and quick prep time mean you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends, these lemon crinkles are sure to bring smiles.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup natural cane sugar
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1/4 cup vegan margarine (such as Earth Balance)
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2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 baking flour)
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/8 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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In a mixing bowl, cream together the cane sugar and vegan margarine until light and fluffy.
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Mix in the applesauce, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
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Scoop out 1½-inch portions of dough, roll them into balls, then coat each in powdered sugar.
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Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving room for slight spreading.
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Bake for 10 minutes, or until cookies are puffed and the surface has a crinkled appearance.
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Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 112 kcal | Servings: 12 cookies
Vegan Lemon Crinkle Cookies – A Perfect Springtime Treat
Vegan Lemon Crinkle Cookies are the perfect combination of freshness and sweetness, and they bring a refreshing burst of lemon flavor with every bite. This melt-in-your-mouth cookie features a delightful crinkly texture on the outside, while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. These cookies are not just delicious, but they are also simple to prepare with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you are looking to indulge in a special treat or need a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
A Cookie with a Crinkly Twist
What sets crinkle cookies apart from other cookies is the unique texture they develop during baking. Crinkle cookies form a thin, cracked crust on top while baking, creating an attractive and appealing appearance. The crinkled surface is achieved by rolling the cookie dough balls in powdered sugar before baking, which helps create the distinct crackled look. These Vegan Lemon Crinkle Cookies are no exception, offering a visually stunning result alongside their delightful texture.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
There are several reasons why this vegan lemon crinkle cookie recipe has become a fan favorite. The combination of tangy lemon zest and fresh lemon juice infuses these cookies with a refreshing flavor that stands out. With a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s hard to resist grabbing a second or third cookie. And the best part is that this recipe is incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients, making it the perfect go-to cookie for beginners or seasoned bakers.
Health Benefits of Lemon
Lemon, the star ingredient in these cookies, is packed with nutrients and has several health benefits. Rich in vitamin C, it boosts the immune system and can help improve skin health. Additionally, lemons are known for promoting digestion, helping to detoxify the body, and potentially reducing the risk of kidney stones. Adding lemon to your diet not only elevates your baking but also offers these wonderful health benefits, making these cookies a delightful yet nutritious treat.
A Perfect Vegan Dessert
What makes these lemon crinkle cookies stand out is that they are completely vegan. By using plant-based ingredients such as vegan butter and applesauce, these cookies cater to those following a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle. Despite the absence of animal products, they still deliver the same delicious, soft, and chewy texture you would expect from traditional cookies. Whether you are vegan or not, these cookies will be a hit with anyone who loves fresh and citrusy flavors.
The Simplicity of the Recipe
Making Vegan Lemon Crinkle Cookies is easy and requires minimal prep time. You start by creaming together sugar and vegan margarine until fluffy, then adding apple sauce, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Once combined, dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, and salt are added to form a soft dough. The dough is rolled into small balls, coated in powdered sugar, and baked for a quick 10 minutes. The simplicity of the process makes this recipe a perfect choice for busy bakers or anyone looking for a quick and delicious dessert.
Make Ahead and Store Well
Another reason to love this recipe is its ability to store well. These cookies remain soft and chewy for days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for parties or gatherings. You can even freeze the cookies, allowing you to prepare them in advance for a future event. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for up to three months.
Creative Variations
While the classic lemon crinkle cookie is already irresistible, you can take this recipe to the next level by making a few creative variations. For a colorful twist, you could add a drop of vegan yellow food coloring or a pinch of turmeric to make the yellow hue pop. If you’re a fan of berry flavors, why not try making Lemon Raspberry Crinkle Cookies by adding freeze-dried raspberries? Or, for a tropical vibe, try substituting the lemon juice with lime juice for a fresh Lime Crinkle Cookie.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Vegan Lemon Crinkle Cookies are incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, bringing treats to a cookie swap, or looking for a light dessert for a tea party, these cookies will undoubtedly impress. Their vibrant lemon flavor and delicate, chewy texture make them an ideal choice for springtime events, baby showers, bridal showers, or casual get-togethers. They also make a fantastic addition to a birthday party, paired alongside a vegan lemon cake or other treats.
Conclusion
These Vegan Lemon Crinkle Cookies are the ultimate balance of fresh, zesty lemon and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will keep you coming back for more. Easy to make, with simple ingredients, they are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply indulging in a personal treat. With the health benefits of lemon and the ability to store well, these cookies are both a delicious and practical dessert option. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, these cookies will undoubtedly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.