Description
These Lemon Cake Mix Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies, combining the tangy flavor of lemon with the soft, rich texture of cream cheese and butter. Featuring a quick preparation and baking time, these cookies are coated in powdered sugar for an extra sweet finish, making them a perfect treat for any citrus lover or a refreshing dessert option.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon flavor extract
- 1 box lemon cake mix
For Coating
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, egg, and lemon flavor extract with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Cake Mix: Incorporate the lemon cake mix into the wet ingredients and mix thoroughly until the dough is well blended and uniform in texture.
- Chill Dough: Cover the cookie dough bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes; this step helps the dough firm up for easier handling.
- Preheat Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Shape Cookies: After chilling, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat, then place them on cookie sheets sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Ensure there is at least 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 13 minutes until they are set but still soft to the touch.
- Cool: Remove the cookies and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust with additional powdered sugar if desired for extra sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Do not overbake the cookies; they should be soft and slightly set when removed from the oven.
- Chilling the dough is essential for shaping and helps prevent spreading during baking.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the lemon extract.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
