This Lemon Poppy Seed recipe is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet with a delightful crunch from the poppy seeds. It’s a simple treat that feels fancy, and the bright lemony flavor will wake up your taste buds in the best way possible. Whether it’s for breakfast or a snack, it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the zesty burst of lemon combined with a soft, moist texture, this is the recipe for you! It’s light yet flavorful, and the poppy seeds add a lovely little crunch. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy mornings or whenever you need a little something special.

Ingredients

Here’s a preview of what you’ll need:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon poppy seeds

You can find the full list of ingredients and their quantities below!

Directions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s always good to get the oven heated up while you prep everything else!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the lemon zest and stir it in for that wonderful fresh lemon scent.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and poppy seeds. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Don’t overmix it—just enough to incorporate everything.

Step 4: Bake!

Scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet using a spoon or cookie scoop, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Make sure your butter is softened—this helps create that light, fluffy texture.
You can adjust the amount of lemon zest depending on how strong you want the lemon flavor to be.
For an extra zing, try adding a bit of fresh lemon juice to the dough!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil.
Try swapping in some almond flour for a gluten-free version, but keep in mind the texture might change slightly.
Add a glaze of lemon juice and powdered sugar for a sweeter finish!

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Lemon Poppy Seed cookies are fantastic on their own with a cup of tea or coffee. You could also pair them with a light salad for a refreshing meal or serve them alongside a fruit tart for a little extra citrus delight.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them! Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.

4 FAQs

Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, lime will give a different but still delicious citrus flavor that pairs well with the poppy seeds.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use two baking sheets or bake in batches.
Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Yes! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze it for a couple of hours, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
What if I don’t have poppy seeds?
If you’re out of poppy seeds, you can substitute with chia seeds or simply omit them for a plain lemon cookie.

Conclusion

These Lemon Poppy Seed cookies are a delightful, citrusy treat that’s both light and satisfying. They’re perfect for snacking, breakfast, or even sharing at a gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe is a breeze to make and will surely bring a burst of sunshine to your day!

Lemon Poppy Seed Recipe

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These Lemon Poppy Seed cookies are the perfect blend of tangy lemon and sweet, buttery goodness, with a delightful crunch from the poppy seeds. Simple to make but fancy enough for any occasion, they’re the ideal snack or breakfast treat.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10-12 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Yield: 16 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon poppy seeds

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Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing the dough.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: Cream together softened butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). Add lemon zest and stir it in.
Add the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and poppy seeds. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
Bake: Scoop dough onto a lined baking sheet with a spoon or cookie scoop, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool slightly on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack.