KEWANEE WEATHER

In the kitchen with Kim: Lemonade Cookies


By Kim Gehling    June 27, 2026
The recipe for these Lemonade Cookies was discovered in a vintage cookbook at an estate sale, and are the perfect treat to kick off summer. [Photos by Kim Gehling]

I picked up a cookbook from the 1980s at an estate sale a couple of weeks ago, and the first recipe that caught my eye was these Lemonade Cookies. I’d never heard of cookies made with frozen lemonade concentrate before, and I couldn’t help but wonder what they would taste like. They sounded like the perfect recipe to kick off summer baking.

These cookies are soft, fluffy and almost cake-like. They have a light lemon flavor that’s noticeable without being overpowering.

They’re similar to a sugar cookie but much softer, with a delicate crumb and a refreshing citrus flavor. Brushing the tops with lemonade concentrate while they’re still warm gives them just a little extra zing, and the sprinkle of sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a little sparkle.

These were a hit at our house and they disappeared quickly. I always enjoy trying recipes from vintage cookbooks, and this one didn’t disappoint. If you’re looking for an old-fashioned recipe that’s a little different, I think you’ll enjoy these.

From our kitchen to yours — enjoy!

Lemonade Cookies

Ingredients

  • 1 c. butter, softened
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 c. flour
  • 2 t. grated lemon zest
  • 1 t. baking soda
  • 1 (6 oz.) can frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed and divided
  • Additional sugar, for sprinkling

Instructions

– Preheat the oven to 375°F.
– In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
–Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
–Stir together the flour, lemon zest, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture.
– Stir in 1/2 c. of the thawed lemonade concentrate, reserving 1/4 c. for brushing the cookies after baking. (You’ll have a small amount left over.)
–Scoop or drop dough by rounded spoonfuls about 2 inches apart onto parchment-lined cookie sheets.
– Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
–While the cookies are still warm, brush the tops with the reserved lemonade concentrate and immediately sprinkle with additional sugar.

We're local. We're nonprofit. But reporting the news isn't free. Please support The Kewanee Voice with a monthly donation.

Donation