Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookies (Makes ~20 cookies)

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  
• 1 large egg
  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  
• 1 tbsp pink grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed)
  
• Zest of 1 pink grapefruit
  
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
  
• 1/4 tsp salt
  
  

For the Pink Grapefruit Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
  
• 2–3 tbsp pink grapefruit juice
  
• Optional: a few drops of natural pink pitaya powder for brighter color
  
  

For Finishing:

• Sparkling sugar or coarse sugar crystals
  
• Extra grapefruit zest for garnish (optional)
  
  

Instructions: 

1. Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add the egg, vanilla, grapefruit juice, and zest, and mix until combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30–60 minutes (or overnight).

2. Bake the Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll gently. Flatten slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are set but centers still look soft. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

3. Make the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar with grapefruit juice until smooth and slightly runny. Adjust consistency by adding more juice (to thin) or powdered sugar (to thicken). Add pitaya powder if desired for extra color.

4. Decorate

Once cookies are completely cool, spoon or drizzle glaze over the top. While still wet, sprinkle with sparkling sugar or a bit of extra zest for a beautiful finish.

Let glaze set for 20–30 minutes before stacking or storing.

Pro Tips for Perfect Citrus Cookies

• Use fresh juice and zest for the brightest flavor
  
• Don’t overbake—soft centers make these cookies dreamy
  
• Add a pinch of cardamom or vanilla bean for an extra luxe twist
  
• Store cookies in an airtight container for 4–5 days, or freeze unglazed cookies up to 1 month
  
  

Why Grapefruit?

Grapefruit is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and adds a naturally zesty depth to baked goods. Unlike lemon or orange, it’s a little more complex—less predictable, more grown-up, and totally worth exploring in desserts.

Baked These Beauties?

Tag me @thefoodstylistrd if these made it into your kitchen! I’d love to see your glaze drip game, your sprinkle styling, or your toddler helpers sneaking bites.