Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about combining unexpected flavors, and these Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies are a brilliant testament to that art! Infused with the invigorating tang of lemon and the delightful peppery notes of basil, these cookies offer a unique twist on your classic sweet treat. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but they strike the perfect balance for those of us who find traditional sweets a tad too sugary. With their soft and chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for gatherings or a quiet afternoon indulgence with tea. Are you ready to transform your baking adventures with this deliciously unexpected recipe? Why Are These Cookies So Unique? Unexpected Flavor Burst: The combination of tangy lemon and fragrant basil creates a refreshing twist that will surprise and delight your taste buds. Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, these cookies come together effortlessly, making them perfect for bakers of all levels. Soft & Chewy Texture: The result is a soft, chewy cookie that combines crisp edges with a tender middle, providing the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a tea party or enjoying an afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to impress. Serve them alongside a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade for a truly harmonious experience! Want more unique treats? Check out my Cone Crunch Cookies for another delightful surprise! Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Dough White Sugar – 1 3/4 cups (350 grams) to sweeten the cookies and create a soft texture. Fresh Basil Leaves – 2/3 cup (40 grams) adds a fragrant herbal note and elevates the cookie’s profile through basil sugar. All-Purpose Flour – 2 1/2 cups (364 grams) is essential for providing structure and consistency to the cookies. Baking Soda – 3/4 teaspoon works as a leavening agent, giving the cookies a slight rise. Salt – 1/2 teaspoon enhances overall flavor while balancing the sweetness. Butter – 2 sticks (226 grams, at room temperature) provides a rich texture and deep flavor. Vanilla Bean Paste – 1 tablespoon adds complexity and sweet notes to the dough. Lemon Zest – 2 teaspoons infuses bright lemon flavor without adding moisture, keeping cookies tender. Egg – 1 whole egg and 1 egg yolk serve as binding agents, giving cookies structure and richness. For Rolling Basil Sugar – 1/4 cup (50 grams) mixed with 5-6 basil leaves to roll the dough and enhance flavor and visual appeal. These Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies promise a delightful baking experience, mixing unique flavors in each bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies Step 1: Preheat Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it reaches the ideal temperature for baking when you’re ready to pop in your Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies. An accurate oven is crucial for achieving the perfect chewy texture, so let it heat up while you prepare the cookie dough. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mixture forms the base of your cookie dough, ensuring balanced flavor and consistent texture. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until fully combined, then set it aside. This step is vital for preventing clumps and ensuring even distribution in your cookies. Step 3: Create Basil Sugar Next, in a food processor, combine 1 3/4 cups of white sugar and 2/3 cup of fresh basil leaves. Pulse the mixture until the basil is finely ground and evenly blended with the sugar, creating a fragrant basil sugar. This unique sugar will infuse your cookies with that delightful herbal note, enhancing the overall flavor profile for your Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies. Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars In a stand mixer, add 2 sticks (226 grams) of room-temperature butter and the basil sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed for about 1 minute until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, creating a soft texture for your cookies. Afterward, mix in the remaining sugar as you continue beating for 2-3 minutes until fully combined and creamy. Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients With the mixer on low speed, gradually incorporate 1 tablespoon of vanilla bean paste and 2 teaspoons of lemon zest into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Next, add 1 whole egg and 1 egg yolk, mixing until all ingredients are well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl regularly to ensure even mixing for your Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies. Step 6: Combine Mixtures Slowly add the dry ingredients from Step 2 into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix; stop when the dough is just barely combined. This ensures your cookies remain soft and chewy rather than dense. The dough will be slightly sticky, which is perfect for shaping your delightful lemon-basil treats. Step 7: Scoop Dough Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop or a generous spoon, portion out the cookie dough and place it onto a parchment-lined baking tray. Be sure to leave about 2 inches between each scoop to allow space for the cookies to spread while baking. This setup is crucial for ensuring that your Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies bake uniformly. Step 8: Roll in Basil Sugar Take the 1/4 cup of basil sugar reserved for rolling and lightly coat each cookie dough ball. This step not only enhances the flavor but also creates a lovely, sparkly finish on the cookies. Gently roll each ball in the sugar, ensuring an even coating for a delightful herbaceous touch and appealing texture. Step 9: Bake Slide the baking tray into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-9 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be set while the centers may look slightly underbaked. This is essential for achieving that signature chewy texture that makes the Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies simply irresistible. Step 10: Cool Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking tray for 5-10 minutes. This extra time allows them to firm up slightly while maintaining their chewy centers. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, letting their delightful aroma fill your kitchen before enjoying these unique treats. How to Store and Freeze Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them soft and chewy. Refrigeration: If you want to make them last a bit longer, store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but be sure to let them come to room temperature for the best texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes, or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to revitalize their softness. Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies Variations Feel free to tweak these cookies to your heart’s content; the delicious adventure is just beginning! Lime Zest: Swap lemon zest for lime zest to add an exciting citrus flair. Chocolate Chip Delight: Mix in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet and savory combo that pleases every palate. Chocolate adds a rich depth that pairs surprisingly well with basil. Nutty Crunch: Incorporate 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pistachios for added texture and a lovely nutty flavor. The crunch beautifully complements the soft cookie base. Dairy-Free Upgrade: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based egg substitute for a dairy-free version, keeping the cookies moist and flavorful. Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for an unexpected spicy twist that heats things up! Herb Fusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or thyme, trading basil for this herbaceous note that adds depth and complexity to the cookies. Citrus Medley: Combine lemon and orange zests to create a more layered citrus experience, brightening up the flavor profile. Shortbread Texture: For a crumblier texture that resembles shortbread, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup and bake slightly longer until golden brown. These cookies become perfect companions with tea or a light afternoon lemonade. Unlock your creativity in the kitchen! When you explore unexpected twists, like adding Lemon Blueberry Shortbread with delightful fruitiness or a rich Flourless Dark Chocolate Brownie, every baking session can become your canvas. Enjoy your delicious journey! What to Serve with Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies Embrace the magic of flavor combinations as you create a delightful experience alongside your freshly baked cookies. Herbal Tea: A calming cup of gentle herbal tea enhances the cookie’s flavors, crafting the perfect afternoon escape. Lemonade Spritzer: The tangy zing of a light lemonade elevates the citrus notes, creating a refreshing pairing for warm days. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and a splash of color, harmonizing beautifully with the cookies’ herbal essence. Cheese Platter: Pairing with soft cheeses, like goat or cream cheese, offers a delightful contrast of textures and rich flavors. Light Sorbet: A refreshing lemon or basil sorbet provides a cool, palate-cleansing option that complements the cookie’s unique profile. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness and creaminess balance the cookie’s flavors and add a romantic touch to your dessert spread. Chai Latte: The warm spices in this drink enhance the herbal notes of the cookies while providing a cozy treat. Lavender Lemonade: This fragrant, floral twist on classic lemonade offers an aromatic experience that beautifully bridges both flavors. Matcha Green Tea: The earthy tones of matcha harmonize with the bright lemon, creating an enchanting fusion of flavors. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream rounds out the dessert, offering creaminess that complements the chewy cookies. Expert Tips for Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies Baking Time: Aim for 8-9 minutes; the cookies should be lightly golden at the edges and soft in the center for the best chewy texture. Ingredient Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature; cold butter can lead to dense cookies and affect the overall texture. Mixing Technique: Mix the dough just until combined to avoid overworking it, which can make the Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies tough rather than soft. Basil Sugar Balance: Don’t skip the rolling in basil sugar! It elevates both the flavor and the appearance, providing a hint of sweetness without overpowering. Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool on the tray to firm up; this minimizes cracking and maintains that perfect chewy middle. Make Ahead Options These Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies are superb for meal prep, ensuring you can have a delightful treat ready when you need it! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients together, scoop them onto the baking tray, and cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, remove the dough from the fridge, roll the cookie balls in basil sugar, and bake straight from the fridge without thawing for a few extra minutes. This prep method helps maintain their soft and chewy texture, ensuring your cookies remain just as delicious as if they were freshly made! Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs How can I tell if my basil is fresh enough for these cookies? Absolutely! When selecting fresh basil, look for vibrant green leaves that are free from dark spots or yellowing. The leaves should feel firm and fragrant—if they are wilted or limp, it’s best to choose another bunch. Fresh basil will enhance the flavor beautifully in your Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies. What’s the best way to store leftover cookies? To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just let them come back to room temperature before enjoying to restore their delightful texture! Can I freeze these cookies for later? Yes, you can freeze Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies for up to 3 months! After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, and transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw on the counter for 20 minutes or bake them briefly in a preheated oven to regain their wonderfully soft texture. What should I do if my cookies come out too hard? Very! If your cookies turned out harder than expected, that might be due to overbaking. Always keep an eye on them during baking, aiming for a light golden edge with a slight softness in the center. If you accidentally overbaked them, you can place them in a sealed container with a slice of bread overnight; this will help them retain some moisture and become softer. Are these cookies suitable for pets? No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets. The ingredients like butter, sugar, and possibly lemon can be harmful to them if consumed in significant amounts. Always be cautious and share pet-friendly treats instead! I have a lemon allergy; can I substitute lime in this recipe? Great question! Absolutely! You can substitute lime zest in place of the lemon zest for a different citrus profile. The rest of the ingredients will work beautifully with lime, giving you a refreshing twist while accommodating your dietary needs. Enjoy baking your Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies! Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies for a Refreshing Twist These Lush Lemon + Basil Sugar Cookies blend unexpected flavors for a refreshing treat that balances sweetness with the herbal notes of basil. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 9 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 49 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: CookiesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough1 3/4 cups White Sugar to sweeten the cookies and create a soft texture2/3 cup Fresh Basil Leaves adds a fragrant herbal note2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour provides structure and consistency3/4 teaspoon Baking Soda works as a leavening agent1/2 teaspoon Salt enhances overall flavor2 sticks Butter provides rich texture and flavor1 tablespoon Vanilla Bean Paste adds complexity and sweet notes2 teaspoons Lemon Zest infuses bright lemon flavor1 whole Egg for binding1 egg yolk Egg Yolk adds richnessFor Rolling1/4 cup Basil Sugar for rolling the dough Equipment ovenmixing bowlStand mixerFood processorbaking trayparchment papercookie scoop Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.In a food processor, combine 1 3/4 cups of white sugar and 2/3 cup of fresh basil leaves. Pulse until finely ground.In a stand mixer, add 2 sticks of room-temperature butter and the basil sugar mixture. Beat until light and fluffy.With the mixer on low, gradually incorporate 1 tablespoon of vanilla bean paste, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, 1 whole egg, and 1 egg yolk.Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low until just combined.Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the cookie dough onto a parchment-lined baking tray.Roll each cookie dough ball in 1/4 cup of basil sugar.Bake for 8-9 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked.Cool on the baking tray for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 30mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor an optimal baking experience, ensure your butter is at room temperature and do not skip refrigerating the dough before baking if the dough becomes too warm. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
