Lemon Glazed Blueberry Cookies

Why This Recipe Works:
This delightful recipe combines the sweet and tart flavors of blueberries with the tangy brightness of lemon in both the cookie and the glaze. The result is a soft, flavorful cookie with a zesty glaze that perfectly complements the juicy blueberries.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

How to Make This Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the bowl, and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Lemon Glaze:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle or spread the glaze over the top of each cookie.
3. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen blueberries?
A: Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the dough to prevent excess moisture.

Q: How should I store these cookies?
A: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The glaze may soften over time, but the cookies will still be delicious.

Expert Tips:

• For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest.
• If using frozen blueberries, toss them in a little flour before folding into the dough to prevent them from bleeding too much color.
• These cookies are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a light dessert.

How to Store This Recipe:
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If storing for longer, consider freezing the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag or container. Frozen cookies can be reheated in the oven before serving.