I haven't quite tasted a cookie like this one! So good!

The simplicity of a cookie often carries the essence of comfort, a reminder of warm kitchens and the sweet scent of nostalgia. Lemon Oatmeal Cookies, a recipe close to my heart, perfectly encapsulate this feeling. These cookies are a delightful variation on the classic oatmeal cookies, a staple in many Midwestern homes, now infused with the bright zest of lemon. They represent the essence of traditional cooking, where simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Ideal for those days when you need a little sunshine or when you wish to share a treat that's as heartwarming as it is nourishing.

Enjoy these Lemon Oatmeal Cookies on their own, paired with a cold glass of milk or a comforting cup of afternoon tea. For an extra treat, serve them with homemade vanilla ice cream or fresh berries to capture the essence of summer.

Lemon Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Makes about 24 cookies

Ingredients:

 

 

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed

1 large egg

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

Directions:

 Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.

In a stand mixer, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and blend well.

Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

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

Fold in the rolled oats. The dough will be sticky yet hearty.

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft.

Let them cool on the baking sheet for a minute before transferring to a wire rack.

Variations & Tips:

Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty flavor.

Mix in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries if desired.

Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Feel free to experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist.

These Lemon Oatmeal Cookies are more than just a treat; they're a piece of history and a celebration of Midwestern hospitality. Take a moment to savor them, to relish in the memories they evoke and the new ones they help create.