Poppy Seed Cookies with Poppy and Lemon
To prepare the most delicious lemon and poppy seed cookies, start by preheating the oven to a medium temperature of about 180 degrees Celsius. This is an essential step, as the right temperature will ensure even baking and a perfect texture for the cookies.
In a large bowl, add granulated sugar and softened butter, left at room temperature. Use an electric mixer to combine these ingredients until you achieve a creamy mixture, pale yellow in color, with a fluffy consistency. This process will incorporate air into the mixture, helping the cookies rise beautifully during baking.
Once the sugar and butter are well mixed, add the eggs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and grated lemon zest. These ingredients will not only provide flavor but also moisture to the dough, contributing to a soft and pleasant texture. Continue mixing until everything is well integrated.
In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. It is important to sift the dry ingredients, as this process helps eliminate any lumps and aerates the flour, making the cookies fluffier. Add the flour mixture to the wet mixture and incorporate it with a spatula or a wooden spoon. Finally, add the poppy seeds, which will bring a crunchy note and a distinct flavor.
After you have obtained an elastic dough, you can choose to refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm it up a bit, but if you are in a hurry, you can use it immediately. Using a spoon, take portions of dough and, with the help of your finger, transfer them onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between the cookies, as they will spread during baking.
Bake them in the oven for 8-10 minutes, monitoring them closely. If you like your cookies crispier, leave them in for a few extra minutes, but be careful not to burn them. When they are ready, take the tray out of the oven and let the cookies cool on a cooling rack to maintain their crunchy texture. Once cooled, you can enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee, savoring the perfect combination of flavors. These cookies are ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a party or simply a delicious snack at home.
Ingredients: 125 g sugar, 250 g flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/3 cup poppy seeds, 2 eggs, 100 g butter, juice and zest of 1 lemon.
