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How to Make Easy Lemon Cookies with Cake Mix – A Simple & Delicious Recipe

This easy lemon cookie recipe uses cake mix to create soft, chewy cookies with a bright citrus flavor. Finished with a sweet lemon glaze, these cookies are perfect for summer treats, holiday baking, or quick desserts. Best of all, they require minimal ingredients and no advanced baking skills!

Ingredients

Scale

For the cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

For the glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Zest of ½ lemon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon zest.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the lemon juice, until a soft dough forms.
  6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  8. To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
  9. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use fresh lemon zest and juice instead of artificial flavoring.
  • If the dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before baking.
  • These cookies are versatile—add poppy seeds, coconut, or white chocolate chips for a unique twist.
  • Storing tip: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months.
  • Serving suggestion: Pair with tea, coffee, or fresh berries for a delightful treat!

This recipe ensures delicious homemade lemon cookies with minimal effort and maximum flavor—perfect for bakers of all skill levels!