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Jumbles

Jumbles are the kind of cookies that never get old. They look simple, but the lemon zest and sugar topping make them shine. I love baking them when I want something cozy without a lot of fuss. You can even change up the shape every time to keep it fun. If you’ve got flour, butter, and a little lemon, you’re already halfway there!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 32 jumbles
Course: baking
Cuisine: British
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 extra-large egg
  • A few drops of vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 sticks salted butter softened
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest finely grated
  • 3½ cups all-purpose flour
  • Clear honey for brushing
  • Demerara sugar for dusting on top

Method
 

  1. First, I preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a big bowl, I mix the softened butter and sugar until it turns creamy. I use a wooden spoon or a hand mixer when I’m lazy.
  3. I crack in the egg and add the vanilla. I stir everything until smooth.
  4. Then I mix in the lemon zest—it smells so fresh and adds that little kick.
  5. I slowly add the flour, one cup at a time, and keep mixing until I get a soft dough. If it feels sticky, I sprinkle in a little more flour.
  6. I take pieces of dough and roll them into ropes. Then I twist or curl them into simple knots or circles.
  7. I place the shaped dough on the baking sheets, leaving some space between them.
  8. I brush a little honey on top of each one, just enough to make them sticky. Then I sprinkle some demerara sugar on top for crunch.
  9. I bake them for about 12–15 minutes, until the edges look light golden.
  10. After baking, I let them cool on the pan for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack.

Notes

Baking Jumbles with Kids

Baking Jumbles with kids is one of my favorite ways to spend a lazy afternoon. The dough is soft and easy to handle, which makes it perfect for little hands. Kids love rolling it out and twisting it into loops, knots, or even silly shapes that only they understand.
I usually set up a small station for them with flour, a kid-friendly rolling pin, and a few cookie cutters. They help mix, shape, and even brush on the honey glaze. Sprinkling the sugar on top is always their favorite part—it feels like decorating magic.
Feel no pressure for perfect shapes. Every cookie is unique, and that’s what makes the baking time extra special. Plus, the smell of Jumbles baking fills the kitchen and gets everyone excited for a warm cookie treat.
It’s fun, a little messy, and full of smiles.