Are you craving something sweet but trying to cut back on sugar? If you love the refreshing flavor of lemon, then you’ll be thrilled to discover how to make Sugar Free Lemon Cookies! These mouthwatering cookies are perfectly sweetened without any added sugar, making them an excellent choice for those on low-sugar, diabetic, or keto diets. Not only do they provide a bright, citrusy zing, but they are also quick and easy to whip up, challenging the belief that healthy treats can’t be delicious!
Ingredients List
To create these fabulous Sugar Free Lemon Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Cookie Dough:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup granulated erythritol or your favorite sugar substitute
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Decoration:
- Powdered erythritol (for dusting, optional)
- Additional lemon zest (for garnish, optional)
Timing
Making these Sugar Free Lemon Cookies is quick and straightforward! Here’s how the timing breaks down:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: About 30-35 minutes, making this recipe a fantastic option for those craving a homemade treat without the long wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and are perfectly golden on the outside.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated erythritol, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended, ensuring there are no lumps to keep your cookies smooth and even.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter (or coconut oil) with the erythritol until it’s fluffy and well combined. Add in the eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until the wet ingredients create a homogenous mixture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Carefully add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be cautious not to overwork the dough—this can lead to firmer cookies instead of fluffy ones!
Step 5: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. For a classic look, gently flatten each cookie with your palm just a little.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as almond flour cookies can brown quickly!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch, dust them lightly with powdered erythritol or top with additional lemon zest before serving. Your Sugar Free Lemon Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information per cookie (based on a batch of 24 cookies):
- Calories: 80
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To enhance the healthy aspects of this recipe, consider these substitutions:
- Use coconut flour—just remember that it absorbs more moisture, so adjust the liquid accordingly.
- Incorporate ground flaxseed for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Swap out butter for a vegan butter alternative or applesauce for a lower-fat option.
Serving Suggestions
These Sugar Free Lemon Cookies are delicious on their own, but consider pairing them with:
- Tea or Coffee: These cookies make the perfect companion for your favorite beverage.
- Fruit Salad: Serve with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing and vibrant dessert.
- Whipped Cream or Yogurt: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of Greek yogurt can elevate them to the next level!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps to create a smoother dough.
- Avoid overbaking the cookies; they should be set but still soft when removed from the oven.
- Don’t forget to cool them completely before storing; this keeps their texture intact!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Sugar Free Lemon Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer-lasting cookies, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container; they keep well for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Sugar Free Lemon Cookie recipe is a great way to enjoy a sweet treat while staying true to your healthy lifestyle. Easy to make and delicious to eat, these cookie delights are perfect for any occasion. Try making them today, and be sure to share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more fantastic recipes!
FAQs
Can I use different types of flour in this recipe?
Yes! Almond flour is recommended for a keto option, but feel free to experiment with coconut flour or regular all-purpose flour depending on your dietary needs and preferences.
How should I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. For long-term storage, consider freezing them!
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), allowing it to rest until it thickens.
