Lemon Yuzu Cookies, #SundaySupper

Once Upon A Time, in ancient Japan, an aromatic Asian citron named Yuzu-chan swayed in the breeze. Contemplating the sliver of crescent moon, the fruit thought of its Chinese ancestors. Many of Yuzu-chan’s family survived the trip via the Korean Peninsula. However, as in all journeys, there was great loss. Some seedlings did not survive. But as moonlight bounced on the tree branch where Yuzu-chan was nestled, he nearly burst with citrus pride. Thanks to those who’d survived the challenging journey, Japanese were now appreciating the wonders of yuzu. Condiments with yuzu zest and chili peppers provided fire on the tongue. Japanese confections were kissed by the presence of yuzu and brought many sighs of contentment.

The Ninja Baker's lemon yuzu cookies dance with effervescent citrus!

The gentle wind rocked Yuzu-chan, the crickets sang a sleepy-time lullaby. As the moon slid behind a cloud like a paper-thin Japanese sliding door; Yuzu-chan dreamed of the day he and his family would adventure abroad and share the wonders of yuzu.

Highly recommended: A lemon yuzu cookie in each hand.
How do you eat cookies? 

Well, Yuzu-chan’s dream came true! Fans of the lemon-lime flavored Japanese yuzu citrus are increasing  around the world. While the actual fruit is a rare find in the US, yuzu juice and now dried yuzu bits are available. (Those residing in the City of Angels can head to Marukai. All others can check out the online Amazon offerings. Or your local Asian market.)

Tart yuzu glaze hugs soft citrus cookies.

As soon as I saw dried yuzu bits, I nabbed two packages and set out to make cookies. I confess the yuzu flavor is a tad timid in the cookies. The yuzu taste, however, does sing a tart tune in the sugar glaze. (When baking the cookies next time, I’ll add more yuzu juice and play with coconut flour to compensate for the extra liquid.) With or without adjustments, the recipe for my lemon yuzu cookies is a keeper recipe. A glaze-coated crunchy exterior gives way to a soft citrus cookie. Lemon yuzu cookies are super simple to make. AND no refrigeration of dough is required! The Ninja Baker’s lemon yuzu cookies are for those who LOVE to save time but still savor scrumptious homemade treats!