Lemon Curd Cookies
There’s something truly delightful about biting into a cookie that surprises you with a burst of fresh, tangy lemon. These Lemon Curd Cookies offer just that experience. Imagine a sweet, buttery cookie paired with a luscious citrus topping and a whisper of almonds—it’s cookie bliss! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cookies are a joy to make and even more delightful to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are the perfect blend of soft, tender, and slightly flaky textures. They aren’t just a vessel for the filling; they stand out on their own with a delightful buttery flavor. The lemon curd adds a zesty punch that is both refreshing and satisfying, making these cookies a standout treat.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or nonstick liners
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small pestle or similar tool for indentations
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 Tbsp grated lemon zest
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup Lemon Curd, or store-bought
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or nonstick liners.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until well blended and creamy.
- Add the egg yolks, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt, and mix well.
- Gradually mix in the flour until the dough forms moist clumps.
- Gather the dough into a ball and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Shape scant tablespoons of dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 1 inch apart.
- Using a floured finger or the back of a small pestle, make a deep indentation in the center of each ball.
- Bake the cookies until they are firm and lightly golden on the bottom, about 18 to 20 minutes.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately fill the indentations with lemon curd.
- Return the cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 2 minutes to set the curd.
- Lightly dust the edges with confectioners’ sugar before serving, if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter and egg yolks are at similar temperatures for a smoother dough.
- If you don’t have almond flavoring, don’t worry—these cookies are delicious with or without it.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading while baking, so don’t skip this step.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to roll the dough balls in caster sugar before baking for a slight sugary crunch. Additionally, if you prefer, you can fill the cookies with your favorite jam instead of lemon curd for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of Lemon Curd Cookies contains approximately:
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Certainly! Once baked and cooled, these cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a month.
What if I don’t have lemon curd?
You can use store-bought lemon curd or substitute with your favorite jam for a different twist.
Conclusion
These Lemon Curd Cookies are a delightful treat that combines a buttery base with a zesty lemon finish. They’re perfect for any occasion, and I’m sure your friends and family will love them. Give this recipe a try, and feel free to share your baking experience in the comments below. Happy baking!