Name: Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies That Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 44 min
Ingredients: 1 package Pillsbury™ Sugar Cookie Dough (refrigerated); 3 oz Cream Cheese (softened; mascarpone can be a delightful alternative); 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour for dietary needs); 3 teaspoons Grated Lemon Peel (consider lime peel for a twist); 1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar (can swap with coconut sugar); 2-3 tablespoons Lemon Juice (fresh juice preferred for best flavor)

As I sat enjoying a sunny afternoon, the scent of fresh lemons wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite bakery. There’s something so comforting about the combination of tangy citrus and creamy sweetness, especially when it comes to baking. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with these Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, thanks to the clever use of refrigerated sugar cookie dough, but they boast a soft, tender texture that’s a true crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that’s perfect for spring gatherings or cozy evenings at home. So, are you ready to bring a taste of sunshine into your kitchen?

Why Does Everyone Love These Cookies?

Irresistible Freshness: The lemon-infused glaze provides a bright, refreshing taste that instantly uplifts your mood.
Soft and Chewy: These cookies have a tender texture that’s both airy and satisfying, making every bite a delight.
Effortless Preparation: Using refrigerated dough means you can create bakery-style cookies without the fuss—perfect for busy days!
Versatile Flavors: Swap out lemon for orange or lime for a unique twist, or add chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Perfect for Any Occasion: They shine at spring brunches, summer picnics, or simply as a sweet snack on a cozy evening. Treat yourself to these Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies to brighten your day!

Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Refrigerated Pillsbury™ Sugar Cookie Dough – perfect base to save prep time when you’re in a hurry.
• Cream Cheese (3 oz) – adds a rich moistness and softens the dough; mascarpone can be a delightful alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup) – necessary for structure; gluten-free flour works beautifully to accommodate dietary needs.
• Grated Lemon Peel (3 teaspoons) – elevates the cookie with bright citrus flavor; consider lime peel for a twist.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar (1 1/2 cups) – creates a sweet, smooth finish; swap with coconut sugar for a less sugary option.
• Lemon Juice (2-3 tablespoons) – enhances the glaze’s brightness; fresh juice gives the best flavor in your Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies.

These simple ingredients come together to create a delightful treat that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take your refrigerated Pillsbury™ Sugar Cookie Dough and allow it to soften at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare two cookie sheets by lining them with parchment paper, ensuring an easy release of the cookies once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened sugar cookie dough, cream cheese, all-purpose flour, and 2 teaspoons of grated lemon peel. Mix until fully blended, creating a smooth dough. Be mindful to avoid tasting the raw dough after adding the flour for safety reasons. Once the mixture is ready, use your hands to form 36 equally-sized balls of dough.

Step 3: Arrange on Cookie Sheets
Place the cookie balls onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. You should have enough dough to fit them comfortably on both sheets. Once arranged, it’s time to pop them into the oven for baking.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on them; you want the centers to remain soft. Once they reach this perfect golden color, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Cool Completely
After allowing a minute of cooling, carefully transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely, which will take about 20 minutes. This step is crucial for getting the ideal texture in your Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies, ensuring they’re soft on the inside but firm enough for glazing.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the cookies are cooling, take a mixing bowl and combine the powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Whisk the mixture until smooth and free of lumps, creating a glossy glaze. If it seems too thick, simply add a little more lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Glaze the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, generously drizzle or spread the lemon glaze over each cookie. For a nice touch, sprinkle the remaining lemon peel on top for extra color and flavor. This final step will add a delightful sheen and brightness to your delicious Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy
Finally, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These treats are perfect for sharing with family and friends, adding a touch of sunshine to any gathering or enjoying as a sweet snack at home.

Expert Tips for Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies

Fresh Lemons Only: Use fresh lemons for both juice and zest to achieve the brightest flavor in your Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies—bottled juice just won’t compare.
Cool Before Glazing: Ensure your cookies cool completely before applying the glaze; this prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale to measure cream cheese accurately for consistent results—too much can affect the dough’s texture, leading to excessively soft cookies.
Avoid Raw Dough: Remember not to snack on the raw cookie dough after adding flour, as it can pose a food safety risk.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Try substituting lemon with orange or lime for different tasty variations of these cookies.

Storage Tips for Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay soft and fresh.

Fridge: If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks; just remember to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, restoring that freshly-baked feel to your Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies.

What to Serve with Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies

These refreshing cookies are perfect for pairing with delightful accompaniments that complement their zesty flavor.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of strawberries, blueberries, and melon adds a juicy, sweet contrast that elevates the cookie experience. The freshness balances the creamy glaze perfectly.
Iced Tea Lemonade: A refreshing beverage that harmonizes with the cookies’ citrus notes, making each sip a delightful palate cleanser. The iced tea brings a slight bitterness, creating a harmonious balance.
Honey Yogurt Dip: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey offers a sweet and tangy dip that’s perfect for dunking. This pairing adds a unique twist to the cookie’s simple sweetness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream enhances the lemony crust, making for a dreamy dessert. The warm cookie and cold ice cream are a match made in heaven!
Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink with a slice of lemon will lighten the heavy sweetness of the cookies, making it a refreshing choice. Its effervescence pairs well with the soft texture of the treat.
Decaf Green Tea: Earthy notes of green tea provide a calming balance to the vibrant lemon flavor, perfect for an afternoon treat. This wholesome pairing is great for those looking to unwind.

Let these combinations bring out the best in your Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix and roll the cookie dough balls up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. For optimal results, freeze any unbaked cookie balls for up to 3 months and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time. You can also prepare the lemon glaze ahead, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, simply bake the dough and glaze them directly after cooling for delightful, fresh-from-the-oven treats with minimal effort!

Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies—you’re just a few substitutions away from a whole new delight!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative for a plant-based version without sacrificing flavor.
Citrus Swap: Replace lemon with orange or lime zest to introduce a different citrus twist that’s equally refreshing.
Sugary Sweet: For a less sweet frosting, consider using honey or agave syrup instead of powdered sugar in the glaze.
Add Texture: Mix in chocolate chips or nuts for a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie base—walnuts or pecans work beautifully!
Zesty Variation: Incorporate poppy seeds along with the lemon glaze for a classic lemon poppy seed flavor that brightens each bite.
Make It Vegan: Use a vegan sugar cookie dough and a plant-based cream cheese substitute for a vegan-friendly treat, perfect for sharing.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour, ensuring everyone can join in on the cookie love.
Fun with Frosting: Create a two-tone glaze by mixing in a bit of lemon zest into half your glaze to make decorating fun and colorful!

These variations are guaranteed to keep your baking adventures exciting! If you’re in the mood for more delicious recipes, check out Pumpkin Cream Cheese or whip up a batch of Cream Cheese Chicken for a savory treat!

Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best lemons for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting lemons, look for ones that are bright yellow and slightly firm to the touch, indicating they are juicy. Avoid any lemons with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as these may be past their prime. A medium lemon typically yields about 2 to 3 tablespoons of juice, perfect for achieving that vibrant flavor in your Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies.

What’s the best way to store my cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them around longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks in the same container. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Can I freeze the cookies, and how?
Certainly! To freeze your Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies, first, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them defrost at room temperature and feel free to reheat them in the microwave for a cozy treat!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If you find your cookies are spreading too much, it could be due to the dough being too warm or the cream cheese being too soft. Make sure to chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking, which will help them hold their shape better. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate by using an oven thermometer, as inconsistent heat can affect baking results.

Are these cookies suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
While the Lemon-Glazed Cream Cheese Cookies contain dairy and gluten, they can be adapted for different dietary needs! For a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and check that your cookie dough fits your dietary guidelines. Always inform your guests of any specific ingredients if allergies are a concern.