Limoncello Sugar Cookies

Name: Limoncello Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt (for topping)

Highlighted under: Sweet Ending Recipes

I absolutely love baking these Limoncello Sugar Cookies! The bright, zesty flavor of limoncello combined with the sweetness of the cookie creates a delightful treat that always brightens my day. Every bite is bursting with citrus goodness and a hint of buttery richness. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served at a gathering, these cookies bring a refreshing twist to the classic sugar cookie. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, which makes them even more enjoyable to whip up anytime I crave something sweet.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T11:00:57.066Z

Baking these cookies has become a cherished activity for me. The process starts with creaming butter and sugar, which creates that wonderful fluffy texture. As I add the limoncello, the aroma fills my kitchen with a citrusy punch that promises deliciousness. Using a good quality limoncello really enhances the flavor, making these cookies a refreshing treat.

I've tried various flavors, but these remain at the top of my favorites. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking adds an extra layer of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. They're perfect for any occasion, and you'll find them disappearing quickly from the cookie jar!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Bright, zesty limoncello flavor that invigorates your taste buds
Light and tender texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to formal celebrations

      

Why Limoncello Enhances Flavor

Limoncello plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor profile of these sugar cookies. It provides a unique zesty brightness that complements the sweetness of the sugar and butter. The alcohol content evaporates during baking, leaving behind a vibrant lemon essence that infuses each bite. If you don’t have limoncello on hand, a mix of fresh lemon juice and additional zest can be a tasty alternative, facilitating a close flavor match.

The lemon zest in the cookie dough adds another layer of citrus flavor. It contains oils that release a strong aromatic fragrance, enriching the taste experience. Always use fresh lemons for zesting; pre-packaged zest often lacks the intensity and freshness that homemade offers. When zesting, take care not to include the bitter white pith, which can negatively affect the cookie's overall flavor.

Perfecting the Cookie Texture

Achieving the ideal cookie texture is key to making these Limoncello Sugar Cookies irresistible. When creaming the butter and sugar, aim for a pale and fluffy mixture. This process incorporates air into the dough, contributing to a light and tender cookie. Overmixing after adding flour can lead to dense cookies, so mix just until combined for the best results.

Baking times can vary based on your oven, so keep a close eye on the cookies as they approach the 10-minute mark. Look for lightly golden edges, as this indicates they are perfectly baked while retaining a tender center. If you prefer a softer cookie, remove them as soon as they are golden, but be ready to adjust for your personal preference after your first batch.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Limoncello Sugar Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, consider placing a slice of bread in the container; the moisture from the bread helps keep cookies soft. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked dough in scoops on a baking tray and then transfer them to a sealed bag. Frozen dough can be baked straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

For a festive twist, consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and limoncello over the cooled cookies. It adds an attractive finish and enhances the limoncello flavor. Pair these cookies with a cup of herbal tea or a sparkling drink at your next gathering for a delightful contrast to rich desserts.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious Limoncello Sugar Cookies:

Limoncello Sugar Cookie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
2 teaspoons lemon zest
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon coarse sea salt (for topping)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Limoncello Sugar Cookies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Flavorings

Beat in the egg, limoncello, and lemon zest until fully combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Dry with Wet

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake

Sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt on top of each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these delightful cookies fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra lemony flavor, feel free to add more lemon zest to the dough. You can also drizzle a lemon glaze on top for an additional treat!

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cookies spread too much while baking, it might be due to softening the butter too much or not chilling the dough. Make sure the butter is softened but still slightly firm, and chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking to maintain their shape.

Conversely, if the cookies are too thick and don’t spread at all, try gently adding a tablespoon of milk to the dough at the mixing stage. This can help create a smoother, more manageable dough and achieve the desired thickness.

Flavor Variations

For a unique twist, you can experiment by infusing the dough with different flavors, such as vanilla or almond extract, in addition to the limoncello. Combining flavors can elevate the cookies and offer a surprising element to your palate.

Adding poppy seeds or dried cranberries can also create a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Fold them into the dough just before baking for an exciting presentational touch and an explosion of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another flavor instead of limoncello?

Absolutely! You can substitute with other liqueurs like orange liqueur or even a lemon extract for a non-alcoholic version.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them!

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking.

→ What other toppings do you recommend?

You can try adding powdered sugar or a light lemon glaze on top for an extra layer of sweetness!