These cookies just scream spring time to me {even though I have no problem eating all year-long.}  I make these cookies almost bite sized..  They are simple and delicious.  They are sure to please.  I love to eat these cookies all on their own but they especially are great for a big spread.  If you are hosting a get together of any kind and need something simple and light to go along with whatever you are serving these cookies are perfect.

This recipe calls for agave nectar.  If you are unfamiliar with agave nectar, it is an all natural sweetener.  It’s a healthy alternative to processed sugar and artificial sweeteners.  {There is no bitter aftertaste like with artificial sweeteners.}   It has a subtle maple flavor.  It is different from honey, although either will work for this recipe.  I usually us the agave nectar.  It is found in the baking aisle of your grocery store.

Chewy Lemon Drop Cookies

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter
zest of 2 lemons
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup agave nectar or honey
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons lemon juice
about 1 cup powdered sugar, for coating

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray.

2. In an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together butter, lemon zest, sugar, and agave nectar (or honey). Mix until very smooth, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides.

With the mixer on low, add in flour, baking soda and lemon juice. Scrape down sides of bowl with a rubber spatula and mix the dough by hand a few times to ensure an even distribution of the ingredients.

4. Using a teaspoon to measure, roll the dough into balls.  Place on prepared baking sheet.  (I was able to fit 20 cookies on a standard baking tray.)   Bake for 8-9 minutes. Let cool for a few minutes on the cookie sheets , and then toss in powdered sugar to coat.  Transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

*Recipe slightly adapted from sophistimom.com

Click HERE to enter our Breville Panini Press Giveaway!