Imagine biting into a cookie that's not just a treat, but a work of art - where vibrant raspberry hues blend seamlessly like a delicious sunset, and zesty lemon whispers of summer freshness. These Ombre Raspberry Lemon Sugar Cookies aren't just desserts; they're an experience that transforms ordinary baking into an extraordinary culinary adventure. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your sweet-making skills and impress everyone from family to Instagram followers!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup raspberry puree
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients and equipment: Gather all listed ingredients, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside dry ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to butter mixture. Beat until well combined and smooth.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide cookie dough into three portions. Mix raspberry puree into one portion to create a vibrant pink/red dough variation.
- Create an ombre effect by layering white, light pink, and deeper pink dough sections when forming cookies.
- Scoop rounded tablespoon-sized dough balls onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cookies will appear slightly soft in center.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
- Once completely cooled, dust cookies with powdered sugar for elegant finishing touch.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure butter is truly softened but not melted for the perfect cookie texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep cookies tender and light.
- Raspberry Puree Technique: Strain raspberry puree to remove seeds for a smoother dough color and texture.
- Ombre Layering Trick: Use a light hand when creating color layers to achieve a beautiful gradient effect.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent melting.
- Storage Hack: These cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare and chill the dough overnight for more convenient baking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
