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Lemon Zucchini Cookies Recipe

4.5 from 67 reviews

Delightfully moist and lightly tangy, Lemon Zucchini Cookies combine grated zucchini’s subtle moisture with bright lemon zest for a unique and delicious twist on traditional cookies. These soft-baked treats are perfect for a refreshing snack or dessert that balances sweetness with a hint of citrus.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed dry)
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini finely and then use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent soggy cookies.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg with vegetable oil and vanilla extract until smooth. Then stir in the lemon zest and grated zucchini.
  4. Make the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
  5. Preheat Oven and Prepare Tray: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  6. Portion the Cookies: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies feel set to the touch.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest or a tablespoon of lemon juice to the wet ingredients.
  • Make sure to squeeze out zucchini well to avoid watery cookie dough.
  • These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend of equal quantity.
  • Adding 1/2 cup chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch if desired.

Keywords: Zucchini cookies, lemon zest, soft cookies, baked cookies, vegetable desserts, summer cookies