Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
Special Equipment Needed:
- 2 baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Zester
- Citrus juicer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest and beat until combined.
6. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
7. Add the lemon juice and mix until just combined.
8. Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, dip the tops of the cookies in the confectioners’ sugar.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 cookies
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil
- Granulated sugar: can be substituted with coconut sugar or maple syrup
- Eggs: can be substituted with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water)
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough
- Substitute the lemon juice with lime juice
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom to the dough
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before dipping them in the confectioners’ sugar
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the cookies on a platter with fresh lemon wedges
- Place the cookies on a cake stand with a bowl of confectioners’ sugar for dipping
Garnishes:
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar
Pairings:
- Tea
- Coffee
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Yogurt parfait
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cookies are too dry, add a few tablespoons of lemon juice to the dough.
- If the cookies are too soft, bake for a few minutes longer.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Wash hands thoroughly before handling food.
Food History:
Bichon au Citron Cookies are a classic French cookie that originated in the 19th century. They are traditionally served during special occasions such as weddings and baptisms.
Flavor Profiles:
These cookies have a light and airy texture with a tart lemon flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
These cookies are best served with a cup of tea or coffee.
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Region: French