Chewy Lemon Crinkle Cookies for 24

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed. Mix just until no streaks of flour remain.
6. Optional: Chill the dough for 30 minutes for better cookie definition.
7. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a 1-inch ball.
8. Roll the ball first in granulated sugar, then generously coat it in powdered sugar until completely white.
9. Place balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are set and the tops have cracked open, but the centers still look slightly soft.
11. Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.