Weight Watchers Lemon Cookies with Zesty Lemon Icing

Indulge in these Light and Refreshing Lemon Cookies with a Zesty Lemon Icing that are perfect for a bright and citrusy treat while staying on track with your Weight Watchers goals!

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (use light butter or a butter substitute for fewer points)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (substitute with a sugar alternative to reduce points)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or use a lighter flour alternative)
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Zesty Lemon Icing:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar (use a sugar alternative to reduce points)
  • 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
    In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter (or light butter) and granulated sugar (or sugar alternative) until light and fluffy.
    Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and mix until well combined.
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour (or lighter flour alternative), baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  2. Chill the Dough:
    Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
  3. Bake the Cookies:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
    Flatten each dough ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
    Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft.
    Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  4. Prepare the Zesty Lemon Icing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar (or sugar alternative), fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. The icing should be thick but pourable. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
  5. Ice the Cookies:
    Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the zesty lemon icing over the top using a spoon or a piping bag.
    Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before serving.
  6. Serve:
    Enjoy your Lemon Cookies with a Zesty Lemon Icing with a cup of tea or as a refreshing dessert!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling time)

Nutrition Information (per cookie):

  • Calories: 100 kcal
  • SmartPoints: 4 (Using Weight Watchers’ current points system; values may vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions)
  • Serving Size: 24 cookies

For a lighter version, consider substituting ingredients or reducing portion sizes. Enjoy your zesty treat while staying on track with your goals!