Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and come out soft and delicious.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients - In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix and baking powder. Stir them together until well combined.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients - In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and lemon zest until fully combined. Then, pour this mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients - Using a spatula, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser cookies.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough - Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 7: Bake - Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly underbaked, but they will continue to set as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Dust - Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and enjoy!
