Here’s a list of ingredients for **Lemon Poinsettia Cookies**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help you rank better for baking-related searches:
- **All-purpose flour** (2 ½ cups) - for the perfect cookie texture
- **Granulated sugar** (1 cup) - adds sweetness and structure
- **Unsalted butter** (1 cup, softened) - for a rich, buttery flavor
- **Fresh lemon zest** (2 tablespoons) - for a bright, citrusy aroma
- **Eggs** (2 large) - binds the dough and adds moisture
- **Vanilla extract** (1 teaspoon) - complements the lemon flavor
- **Baking powder** (1 teaspoon) - helps the cookies rise
- **Salt** (½ teaspoon) - balances the sweetness
- **Powdered sugar** (for dusting) - adds a festive touch
- **Red and green food coloring** (optional) - for a poinsettia-inspired design
- **Edible glitter or sprinkles** (optional) - for a festive, holiday look
**SEO Keywords to Include in Your Recipe Post:**
- Lemon Poinsettia Cookies
- Holiday cookie recipe
- Festive lemon cookies
- Easy Christmas baking
- Citrus holiday treats
- Buttery lemon cookies
- Poinsettia-themed desserts
This ingredient list and keyword strategy will help your recipe stand out in search results for holiday baking enthusiasts!
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Steps
# How to Make Lemon Poinsettia Cookies: A Festive Holiday Treat
If you're looking for a unique and festive holiday cookie recipe, **Lemon Poinsettia Cookies** are the perfect choice. These delicate, citrusy cookies are shaped like poinsettias, making them a stunning addition to your Christmas dessert table. Follow these detailed steps to create these beautiful baked goods that are sure to impress your family and friends.
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## **Ingredients for Lemon Poinsettia Cookies**
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Red and green food coloring (gel-based for vibrant colors)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Dough**
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
### **2. Color the Dough**
1. Divide the dough into three equal portions.
2. Leave one portion plain (for the base of the poinsettia).
3. Add a few drops of red food coloring to the second portion and mix until evenly colored.
4. Add green food coloring to the third portion and mix until evenly colored.
### **3. Shape the Poinsettias**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Take a small piece of plain dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten it slightly to form the base of the cookie.
3. Pinch off small pieces of red dough and shape them into teardrop petals. Arrange 5-6 petals around the base to form a poinsettia flower.
4. Use tiny pieces of green dough to create leaves at the base of the flower.
### **4. Bake the Cookies**
1. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
### **5. Add the Finishing Touch**
1. Once the cookies are completely cool, lightly dust them with powdered sugar to mimic the look of snow.
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## **Tips for Perfect Lemon Poinsettia Cookies**
- Use gel-based food coloring for vibrant, non-runny colors.
- Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before shaping if it becomes too soft.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
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## **Why You’ll Love These Cookies**
These **Lemon Poinsettia Cookies** are not only visually stunning but also bursting with bright, citrusy flavor. They’re perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or as edible gifts. The combination of lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing twist to traditional holiday cookies, making them a standout treat.
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## **SEO Keywords**
- Lemon Poinsettia Cookies
- Festive holiday cookies
- Christmas cookie recipe
- Citrusy holiday treats
- Edible holiday gifts
- Poinsettia-shaped cookies
By following these steps, you’ll create a batch of **Lemon Poinsettia Cookies** that are as delightful to eat as they are to look at. Happy baking! 🎄🍋