Lemon Curd Cookies

Whenever I think about baking, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming wave of nostalgia, especially when it comes to Lemon Curd Cookies. These delightful treats remind me of sunny afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the smell of fresh cookies wafted through the air, mingling with the bright scent of lemons from her garden. I remember eagerly waiting for the cookies to bake, my mouth watering at the thought of that tangy lemon curd hidden in the center. These cookies are not just a recipe; they are a connection to those cherished moments, filled with laughter and love. The combination of buttery cookie and zesty lemon curd creates a delightful burst of flavor that is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Curd Cookies

When it comes to Lemon Curd Cookies, the ingredients are key in crafting that perfect flavor profile. Each element plays a vital role, contributing to the cookies’ texture and taste. You’ll find that the star of the show is the lemon curd, which brings a zesty brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, buttery cookie base. Let’s dive into the ingredients that come together to create these delightful treats!

• 16 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature – This is the foundation of your cookie, providing richness and moisture.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetness that balances the tangy lemon curd.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps create a tender texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavors.
• 2 1/4 cups flour – The structure of the cookie; use a scale for precision.
• 1/2 cup prepared lemon curd – The star ingredient, offering a burst of tartness.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar for rolling – Provides a sweet crust on the outside.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – For the glaze that adds sweetness and decoration.
• 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or 2 tablespoons whole milk – Used for the glaze, adjusting thickness as needed.
• 1 drop almond extract (optional) – A subtle hint of flavor to round out the profile.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt – A final touch to balance all the flavors.

How to Make Lemon Curd Cookies

Ready to embark on a delightful baking adventure? Making Lemon Curd Cookies is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow my steps closely, and soon you will have a batch of these scrumptious cookies to share! Let’s get started!

1. Begin by making the lemon curd at least a day in advance. Chill it for at least 8 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while providing a cool filling for the cookies.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a light texture.
3. Add in vanilla bean paste, cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Beat until fully incorporated, ensuring each ingredient is well mixed into the buttery base.
4. Gradually add 2 1/4 cups flour to the mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want a tender cookie.
5. Once the dough comes together, roll it into 1-tablespoon-sized balls. Each ball should be about the size of a small walnut.
6. Roll the dough balls in 1/3 cup sugar, ensuring they’re fully coated. This will create a lovely sweetness on the outside of your cookies.
7. Press a small indent into the center of each dough ball with your thumb or the back of a spoon. This is where the lemon curd will go.
8. Arrange the cookies on a lined sheet pan, making sure to leave some space between each ball. Cover them and refrigerate for 1 hour. If you’re in a hurry, you can freeze them for 30 minutes.
9. Once chilled, fill the indents with your prepared lemon curd. Be careful not to overfill, as the curd will spread while baking.
10. Refrigerate the filled cookies for an additional 10 minutes to help set the curd.
11. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking.
12. Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are very lightly browned and the tops are set. They should look slightly puffed.
13. After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling process is vital for ensuring that the cookies retain their shape.
14. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and heavy cream in a bowl, adjusting the consistency to your preference. Transfer to a plastic bag, cut a small tip, and drizzle over the cooled cookies, allowing it to set.
15. Repeat the process with the remaining cookie dough. Enjoy your delicious homemade Lemon Curd Cookies!

Recipe Tips about Lemon Curd Cookies

Baking Lemon Curd Cookies can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll enhance your baking skills and impress everyone with your delicious treats.

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days, but good luck keeping them around that long!
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls. Just roll them and place them in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
• Variations: You can experiment with different citrus flavors by swapping the lemon curd for lime or orange curd for a new twist on this classic.
• Presentation: Serve these cookies on a beautiful platter at parties or family gatherings. They make a fantastic impression!
• Pairings: Pair with a cup of tea or coffee; the flavors complement each other perfectly, enhancing your dessert experience.

Perfect Matches for Lemon Curd Cookies

Looking for ways to serve Lemon Curd Cookies? Here are some fantastic ideas that will make your baking experience even more enjoyable!

• Tea Parties: These cookies are an elegant addition to afternoon tea gatherings. Serve them alongside a pot of herbal or black tea.
• Spring Picnics: Bring Lemon Curd Cookies to your next picnic. Their bright flavor is perfect for outdoor dining.
• Birthday Celebrations: Great for birthdays, these cookies can be served as a sweet treat alongside cake and ice cream.
• Holiday Gatherings: They can be a lovely addition to holiday desserts, brightening up any dessert table.
• Gifting: Package them in a cute box as a thoughtful gift for friends or neighbors. Everyone loves homemade treats!
• Seasonal Treats: These cookies shine in the spring and summer months; their citrus flavor is refreshing and light.

FAQ

Conclusion

Lemon Curd Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of lemony joy with every bite. Their buttery base filled with tangy lemon curd makes them irresistible. I encourage you to try making these cookies and experience the amazing flavors they have to offer. You won’t regret bringing these to your next gathering!

Lemon Curd Cookies

The ultimate treat for lemon lovers! Lemon Curd Cookies combine buttery cookie goodness with a zesty lemon curd center. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet indulgence. Make them today!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 33 minutes mins

Servings: 35 cookies

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 16 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
• 3/4 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2-1/4 cups flour see note 1
• 1/2 cup prepared lemon curd see note 2
• 1/3 cups sugar for rolling the cookies in
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 drop almond extract optional
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Equipment

• Candy Thermometer
• Hand mixer
• Sheet pan (15" x 10")

Method

 

1. Make lemon curd at least a day in advance. Chill for at least 8 hours.
2. Beat butter and 3/4 cup sugar in a large bowl with a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment until smooth and creamy.
3. Mix in vanilla, cornstarch, and salt. Add flour and beat on low until just combined, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed. Avoid overmixing.
4. Roll dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls. Roll in 1/3 cup sugar, then press a small indent into the center of each ball.
5. Arrange on a lined sheet pan, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour (or freeze for 30 minutes).
6. Fill indents with chilled lemon curd (careful to not overfill at all), then refrigerate for 10 more minutes.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake cookies for 8–10 minutes, until edges are very lightly browned and tops are set.
8. Cool cookies completely on a wire rack. Repeat with remaining cookies.
9. Whisk together glaze ingredients in a bowl, adjusting cream/milk for desired thickness.
10. Transfer to a plastic bag and cut off the tip. Drizzle over cookies and allow to set.

Notes

• Tip 1: For precise flour measurement, use a food scale (315 grams).
• Tip 2: Use store-bought lemon curd or make your own (homemade tastes better!). If making homemade, you’ll have leftovers—see blog for ideas on how to use them.
• Tip 3: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Best enjoyed within 3–4 days.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.