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If you’re looking for a delightful, charming treat that is as fun to make as it is to eat, this Easter Knot Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These soft, lemon-kissed cookies tied into cute little knots bring a fresh burst of citrus flavor paired with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s sure to brighten any spring gathering. Perfectly glazed and dusted with colorful sprinkles, they capture the joy of Easter in every bite while being simple enough for bakers of all skill levels to whip up. Trust me, once you try this Easter Knot Cookies Recipe, it’ll quickly become a season favorite you’ll return to year after year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easter Knot Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that soft, tender crumb and a delicate lemon glaze that’s just sweet enough without overpowering. From the basic pantry staples to a hint of citrus zest, these ingredients promise both flavor and fun.
- 300g plain flour: The foundation that gives structure and softness to the cookies.
- 2 tsp baking powder: For that gentle lift and fluffy texture.
- 1/4 tsp salt: To perfectly balance sweetness and enhance the flavors.
- 3 large eggs: Bring richness and help bind the dough together.
- 100g sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and aids browning.
- 80g unsalted butter (melted): Contributes to tenderness and a lovely buttery flavor.
- 1 tsp lemon zest (or vanilla extract): Gives a fresh citrus kick or a warm aroma, depending on your preference.
- 60ml milk: Keeps the dough soft and easy to work with.
- 150g icing sugar: For creating the glossy, sweet glaze.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (or milk for milder flavor): Brightens the glaze with tartness or smooths it out if you prefer less tang.
- Colourful sprinkles (optional): Adds a cheerful, festive touch perfect for Easter celebrations.
How to Make Easter Knot Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the plain flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl until well combined. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar vigorously until the mixture becomes light and fluffy — this is key to a tender cookie. Stir in the melted butter, lemon zest, and milk, folding gently. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until a soft, workable dough forms. It should be pliable but not sticky, perfect for shaping into those adorable knots.
Step 2: Shape the Knots
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Break the dough into small pieces and roll each one into a rope about 15cm long. Tie each rope into a loose knot—don’t worry if they look a little rustic; that adds to their homemade charm. Place each knot carefully onto a lined baking sheet, making sure there’s enough space for them to slightly expand without touching.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into the oven and bake the knots for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a light golden color. The aroma of lemon butter will start filling your kitchen, building excitement for what’s to come. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
Step 4: Glaze and Decorate
While the cookies cool, mix the icing sugar with lemon juice until smooth and glossy. You can adjust the consistency with a little more lemon juice or milk depending on how thick you want your glaze. Dip the cooled knots into the glaze, letting the excess drip off, then sprinkle with colorful decorations while still wet. This step adds not only sweetness but also a playful Easter vibe.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the glaze set fully before serving so it becomes perfectly firm but still tender. These Easter Knot Cookies Recipe treats are wonderful companions to a cup of tea or coffee, turning any casual snack time into a joyful celebration.
How to Serve Easter Knot Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While the colorful sprinkles make the cookies look festive and fun, you can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar or add a few edible flower petals for an extra elegant touch. Fresh lemon zest sprinkled on top right after glazing also gives them a vibrant fresh appeal and intensifies the citrus aroma.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with light accompaniments such as a citrusy chamomile tea or a creamy vanilla latte. For a brunch table, serve alongside fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or kiwi, to complement the lemon notes and add a refreshing bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the Easter Knot Cookies Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a pastel-colored platter to highlight their springtime charm. Wrap them in clear cellophane tied with ribbon for gifting or create mini cookie stacks tied with twine as delightful party favors that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Easter Knot Cookies Recipe treats (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to three days, maintaining their tender texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the plain baked but unglazed cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring them into a freezer-safe bag or container once firm. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw completely before glazing and decorating to keep that fresh, just-baked feel.
Reheating
For an extra cozy treat, gently warm leftover cookies in a low oven or microwave for just a few seconds. This revives their soft texture and slightly melts the glaze for a melt-in-your-mouth experience each time you indulge.
FAQs
Can I substitute lemon zest with vanilla extract in this Easter Knot Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Vanilla extract gives the cookies a warm, comforting flavor while lemon zest adds brightness. Both work beautifully depending on your mood and taste preference.
How do I prevent the dough ropes from breaking when shaping knots?
Make sure the dough is soft but not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a tiny splash of milk. Rolling gently and knotting loosely helps keep the shape without snapping the ropes.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the glaze a few hours in advance and keep it covered at room temperature. Give it a quick stir before dipping the cookies to smooth out any thickening.
Are these cookies suitable for kids to help make?
Definitely! The shaping and decorating phases are especially kid-friendly and fun, making this Easter Knot Cookies Recipe a great shared activity to create lasting memories.
What if I don’t have colourful sprinkles?
No worries! You can use finely chopped nuts, small chocolate chips, or keep the glaze plain for a simple, elegant look. The cookies themselves are flavorful enough to shine solo.
Final Thoughts
This Easter Knot Cookies Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little joy and creativity to your holiday table. Their simple ingredients and cheerful presentation make the baking process enjoyable, while the delicious results will impress friends and family alike. Give it a try and watch these charming little knots become a beloved tradition that fills your kitchen with warmth and laughter.
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Print
Easter Knot Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these charming Easter Knot Cookies, featuring a soft, tender dough flavored with a hint of lemon zest and topped with a glossy lemon glaze and colorful sprinkles. Perfectly baked to a light golden finish, these festive treats are ideal for celebrating Easter with family and friends, pairing wonderfully with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 300g plain flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 100g sugar
- 80g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp lemon zest or 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 60ml milk
Glaze and Decoration
- 150g icing sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice or milk (for a milder flavor)
- Colourful sprinkles (optional for decoration)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in the melted butter, lemon zest (or vanilla extract), and milk. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the knots: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a rope approximately 15cm long. Carefully tie each rope into a loose knot and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced apart to allow for slight expansion.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a light golden color. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Glaze and decorate: In a bowl, mix the icing sugar with lemon juice (or milk for a milder taste) to create a smooth, pourable glaze. Dip the cooled knot cookies into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off. While still wet, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for a festive finish.
- Serve: Allow the glaze to set fully before serving. These delightful Easter Knot Cookies are perfect to enjoy alongside a cup of tea or coffee as a festive treat.
Notes
- You can substitute lemon zest with vanilla extract for a different but equally delicious flavor.
- Use milk instead of lemon juice in the glaze for a milder, less tangy sweetness.
- Ensure cookies are completely cool before glazing to prevent melting the icing.
- For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts or coconut flakes to the dough before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
