Name: Luscious Cherry Lemon Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup cherry jam; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2-3 tbsp lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; Yellow food coloring (optional)

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Luscious Cherry Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat that combines tender, buttery cookies with a sweet cherry jam center and a bright lemon glaze. These cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply as a cheerful addition to any cookie platter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies offer a wonderful balance of flavors—the richness of the buttery cookie contrasts beautifully with the fruity sweetness of the cherry jam and the zesty, tangy lemon glaze. They are easy to make, visually appealing, and can be prepared ahead of time. The thumbprint style adds a homemade, nostalgic touch that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup cherry jam
2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
zest of 1 lemon
yellow food coloring (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, make an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill each indentation with a small amount of cherry jam.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Add yellow food coloring if desired.
Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes

Variations

Substitute raspberry or apricot jam for the cherry jam for a different flavor profile.
Add almond extract (1/2 teaspoon) to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
Sprinkle finely chopped pistachios over the glaze for added color and texture.
Make mini cookies for bite-sized treats by using smaller portions of dough.

Storage/reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the plain cookies without glaze and jam for up to 1 month. Thaw, add jam, and glaze before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice for the glaze?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

How do I keep the jam from spreading too much?

Be careful not to overfill the indentation; a small amount of jam is sufficient.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I need to chill the dough?

It’s not required, but chilling for 30 minutes can help the cookies hold their shape better during baking.

Can I skip the food coloring?

Yes, the food coloring is purely for presentation and can be omitted.

What can I serve with these cookies?

They pair well with tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk.

How do I prevent the glaze from becoming too runny?

Add the lemon juice gradually and adjust with more powdered sugar if needed for a thicker consistency.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt slightly to balance the flavor.

Are these cookies soft or crisp?

They have a tender, slightly soft texture with a crisp edge.

How can I drizzle the glaze neatly?

Use a small spoon or a piping bag with a fine tip for controlled drizzling.

Conclusion

Luscious Cherry Lemon Cookies are a vibrant and flavorful addition to any dessert table. With their buttery base, sweet jam center, and zesty glaze, they offer a perfect harmony of tastes and textures. Simple to make and beautiful to serve, these cookies are sure to brighten any occasion.