When it comes to dessert, panko might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind. Well-known for crumbing cutlets or serving as a crisp topping for a casserole, these flaky breadcrumbs step into the limelight in the sweet world. They are the surprise ingredient in Lemon Panko Cookies, helping to create a delectable crunch on the surface while keeping the texture within soft and a touch chewy. The cookies are a wonderful mix of snowball and shortbread, with a zesty lemon aroma and an irresistibly crispy exterior that keeps you reaching for ‘just one more.’

Creating these culinary delights is quite an uncomplicated process: the powdered sugar combines swiftly with soft butter, cutting down on your beating time for airiness. The dough is fragranced with fresh lemon zest (or orange if you prefer), while a dash of lemon juice and a scrape of vanilla bean seeds add depth to the flavor. A brief chill in the fridge stiffens up the dough, making it easy to form into neat balls, and these then get a light panko covering before going into the oven.

These cookies bake to perfection, acquiring a beautiful dome shape and a dusting of powdered sugar gives them an appealing snow-capped aesthetic. The result is a uniquely textured treat, sweet without being overpowering, and deceptively simple. They make the perfect companion for a cup of tea or coffee that you'd be delighted to share with friends.

An essential principle of baking is precision – measurements by weight are perhaps more exact than those by volume, especially when dealing with panko. Different brands can vary greatly in coarseness and using the right amount of panko for these cookies is critical. This variation could be the difference between pleasingly tender cookies and dry, tough ones. Therefore it is prudent to weigh your panko - aim for 3 1/8 ounces.

If you often lament, "My cookies always seem to burn on the bottom," the issue could be that your oven's lower heating element runs too hot. You can correct this by adding insulation to protect the dough. Simply place two baking sheets or pans atop each other, and bake your cookies on this double-layered metal base. If you're short on pans, adjusting the oven rack one level higher could help.

This sumptuous recipe was crafted by Cheryl Slocum, and this article has been written by Ann Taylor Pittman.

So why not try out these delightful Lemon Panko Cookies today! Their unique texture, and the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch are sure to win over your taste buds.