When I Needed A Pick Me Up I Turned To 19 Lemon Recipes

Mood in the basement? Same. Then came 19 ways to weaponize citrus and confuse your boredom into leaving. Each one was a small act of rebellion against blah, kind of like giving your routine a sour punch in the teeth. It’s not therapy, but it might be the next best thing if you’re emotionally allergic to silence.

Close-up of a square piece of yellow cake with a smooth white icing layer on top, sitting on a light-colored surface.
Lemon Brownies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Close up image of lemon blueberry muffin cookies on a wooden board.
Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A tray of cookies with soft muffin-like centers and a burst of lemon flavor hits just right. Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies bring the tartness of lemon paired with fruity bursts in every bite. Perfect for snacks, they’re light and sweet enough to cheer up any day. The chewy texture with the mix of brightness is hard to pass up.
Get the Recipe: Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Lemon Bars

Close-up of a lemon bar with a crumbly, light yellow top layer and a thicker, moist filling resting on a shortbread crust.
Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You can’t go wrong with these dessert squares full of tangy goodness. Lemon Bars combine a velvety filling with a sturdy base for a clean bite. The creamy texture makes them a must whenever sweetness and sharp lemon come together. People love the simplicity while still delivering a strong lemon presence.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Vegan Lemon Tartlets (Gluten-Free)

Vegan Lemon Tartlets (Gluten-Free). Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Perfect for those days you need something light yet full of flavor. Vegan Lemon Tartlets (Gluten-Free) have a smooth filling paired with crunchy textures for an easy-to-love balance. Their bite-sized nature makes them great for sharing or enjoying solo. Being gluten-free, they’re a versatile option for a variety of food preferences.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lemon Tartlets (Gluten-Free)

Lemongrass Chicken

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mixing citrusy brightness with a hearty meal works wonders for something filling. Lemongrass Chicken blends savory notes with light, refreshing vibes, perfect for lunch or dinner. The tender texture combined with the bold flavors makes it stand out. If you’re looking for something simple yet full of range, it ticks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

Lemon Cookies

A stack of lemon cookies on a cooling rack.
Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These soft, melt-in-your-mouth treats are an easy way to enjoy lemon’s bold profile. Lemon Cookies keep things simple while delivering unmistakable flavor in every bite. They’re a go-to when cravings for citrus-driven desserts pop up. The crumbly texture pairs well with their concentrated brightness.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds

A glass jar of granola spills onto a surface next to a white bowl filled with blueberries.
Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A good option for breakfast or snacks when sweet meets citrus. Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds combines tangy bites of lemon with crunchy textures for a pleasing mix. The blueberries add bursts of fruitiness to upgrade every scoop. Easy to sprinkle over yogurt or enjoy on its own, this granola adds flair to everyday eating.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds

Lemon Cheesecake

A slice of lemon cheesecake with a graham cracker crust is being lifted from the whole cake, which is topped with whipped cream and lemon slices.
Lemon Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy layers meet tart flavors in this dessert favorite. Lemon Cheesecake keeps things fresh while staying rich enough to feel indulgent. The mix of ingredients creates a smooth texture that feels effortless to enjoy. It’s one of those desserts that work just as well for celebrations as for quieter moments.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cheesecake

Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Vanilla and lemon cupcakes with swirled pink raspberry buttercream frosting, each topped with a fresh raspberry, arranged closely together.
Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A light treat with an airy base and fruity topping makes this fun for all occasions. Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting blend the tartness of lemon with the softer sweetness in its topping. These cupcakes stand out with their balance of textures and flavors. Great for casual bites or special events, they never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Image of cooked air fryer cod fillets seasoned with herbs and garnished with lemon wedges and parsley on a plate.
Crispy Air Fryer Cod. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for something fresh yet hearty? Crispy Air Fryer Cod combines the vibrancy of lemon with a crispy exterior, making it a standout dish. The airy texture with bold flavors makes it great for dinners without feeling heavy. Perfect for pairing with simple sides when you want more variety.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Vegan Lemon Poppyseed Cake

A loaf of poppy seed cake dusted with powdered sugar sits on a wooden board next to a beige cloth napkin.
Vegan Lemon Poppyseed Cake. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cake brings subtle flavors together with a moist texture and subtle pop. Vegan Lemon Poppyseed Cake is a dessert choice with a good range for plant-based eaters. The poppy seeds add layers of texture to complement the bright lemon. Great for gatherings or enjoying as a treat, it’s versatile and easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lemon Poppyseed Cake

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A thoughtful meal option when brightness meets hearty bowls of comfort. Best Lemon Pasta blends strong lemon notes with silky, textured pasta, making it stand out from heavier dishes. It’s light and refreshing without lacking flavor. Perfect for those who love mixing citrus with savory dishes.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Lemon Pound Cake

Sliced lemon cake with glaze on parchment paper, next to lemon slices.
Lemon Pound Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

The dense yet moist texture of this cake makes every slice worth indulging. Lemon Pound Cake brings tanginess and sweetness into each bite, making it memorable. Easy to pair with coffee or tea, it’s a versatile pick for any time of day. Simple yet bold, it’s hard to resist its charm.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon Yogurt Loaf

A sliced lemon cake topped with white icing and lemon slices.
Lemon Yogurt Loaf. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mixing creaminess with citrus tones, this recipe is effortless to enjoy. Lemon Yogurt Loaf balances subtle lemon notes with a texture that is soft yet structured. Works well as breakfast, dessert, or even an easy snack. Its mix of complementary flavors is good for casual eating moments.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Yogurt Loaf

Lemon Pie

A slice of lemon pie sits on a plate next to a pie with a slice removed.
Lemon Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A dessert favorite that combines fruity sharpness with a creamy filling and structured base. Lemon Pie is both familiar and refreshing, great after meals or as a snack. The strong citrus notes complement the richness to keep it balanced. It’s timeless for those who love citrus-heavy desserts.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie

Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls

Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Snack-sized pieces bring sweetness and tartness packed into a smooth bite. Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls are easy to love, filled with rich flavors that work individually or as a sharing option. Great for on-the-go moments or just as a prepped treat. Their compact size makes them a practical dessert.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cheesecake Bliss Balls

Raw Lemon Slice

Raw Lemon Slice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

No-cook dessert that still hits a bold flavor range when citrus-forward cravings arise. Raw Lemon Slice sticks to simple flavors that feel fresh yet fulfilling. Its soft bite makes it easy to enjoy as a dessert without much prep fuss. It’s a great option for quick, light eating moments.
Get the Recipe: Raw Lemon Slice

Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

A close-up image of layered lemon raspberry cake slices topped with fresh raspberries and lemon zest.
Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bars mix fruity notes together in a way that feels clean yet layered. Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars offer bursts of raspberries along with a creamy lemon base, making them standout snacks or desserts. Their structured layers make them easy to serve. These bars cater to anyone who loves berry and citrus flavors combined.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles

Stack of red popsicles surrounded by sliced lemons and strawberries on a wooden surface with a basket in the background.
Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A frozen option that layers fruity notes together with cooling satisfaction. Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles aren’t complicated but deliver refreshing twists for hotter days. The grab-and-go style makes them perfect for quick treats. Enjoyable for all age groups, they balance fruitiness nicely.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles

Lemon Brownies

Close-up of a square piece of yellow cake with a smooth white icing layer on top, sitting on a light-colored surface.
Lemon Brownies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dessert that trades classic rich chocolate flavors for citrusy tones instead. Lemon Brownies take the same soft texture of brownies and add lemon as the star. Great for switching up dessert terrines or offering something new. Easy to share and enjoy without feeling overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Brownies

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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