Soft and tangy, Stuffed Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fresh lemons in every bite. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home. With their buttery texture and zesty lemon curd filling, they offer a unique blend of flavors that will impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Refreshing Flavor – The combination of lemon juice and zest adds a bright, refreshing taste that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie.
- Versatile Treat – Serve them at gatherings, as gifts, or enjoy them on your own. They fit perfectly into any setting!
- Perfectly Balanced – The soft cookie hugs the tangy lemon curd, creating a delightful balance of sweet and tart in each bite.
- Impressive Presentation – These cookies look sophisticated but are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a great choice for impressing guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
- Whisk – Helps achieve a smooth consistency in your batter and curd.
- Baking tray – Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
Ingredients
For these delightful Stuffed Lemon Cookies, you will need the following:
- 55g (1/4 cup) caster sugar
- 4g (1 teaspoon) cornstarch
- 1 egg (53g)
- 45g (3 tablespoons) fresh lemon juice
- Lemon peel from 1/4 lemon
- 22g (1.5 tablespoons) unsalted butter
- 110g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 110g (1/2 cup) caster sugar
- Lemon zest from 3/4 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
- 1 egg (52g)
- 200g (1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Granulated sugar for coating
How to Make Stuffed Lemon Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Curd Filling
- In a bowl, mix together the caster sugar and cornstarch until well combined.
- Add in the first egg, followed by the fresh lemon juice and lemon peel.
- Cook this mixture over a bain-marie for about 10 minutes until it thickens.
- Stir in the unsalted butter until fully melted and combined.
- Allow it to cool before covering it with plastic wrap and chilling in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, portion out the filling into about ten pieces and freeze them for one hour.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the remaining unsalted butter, both portions of caster sugar, and lemon zest.
- Add in the second egg, mixing well until fully integrated.
- Gradually fold in the mixed dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, pinch of salt, and baking soda.
- Chill your dough in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble Your Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scoop out portions of dough and flatten them into discs.
- Place one frozen piece of lemon curd filling in the center of each disc.
- Carefully wrap the dough around the filling to enclose it completely.
- Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on a lined baking tray.
Step 4: Bake Your Cookies
- Bake your stuffed cookies at 350°F for about 8–9 minutes or until their edges turn golden brown.
- Allow them to cool on the tray briefly before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade Stuffed Lemon Cookies as delightful treats anytime!
How to Serve Stuffed Lemon Cookies
Stuffed lemon cookies are delightful treats that can brighten up any occasion. Their sweet and tangy flavor makes them a perfect pairing for various beverages and desserts. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy your cookies.
With a Cup of Tea
- A warm cup of chamomile or Earl Grey tea complements the citrus notes in the cookies, enhancing their flavors.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange stuffed lemon cookies on a dessert platter with other treats like brownies or fruit tarts for a colorful and inviting presentation.
Drizzled with Icing
- For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the cookies before serving. This adds more lemon flavor and visual appeal.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve your cookies alongside fresh strawberries or blueberries. The tartness of the berries balances well with the sweetness of the cookies.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm stuffed lemon cookies, creating a delicious contrast between hot and cold.
How to Perfect Stuffed Lemon Cookies
To ensure your stuffed lemon cookies come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and quality butter will enhance the flavor of your cookies significantly.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough helps it hold its shape during baking, preventing spreading.
Freeze Lemon Curd Properly: Making sure your lemon curd is fully frozen before filling helps keep it intact while baking.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be golden around the edges but soft in the center.
Store Correctly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness for longer.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Lemon Cookies
Stuffed lemon cookies can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Chamomile Tea: This calming beverage brings out the citrus notes in the cookies, making it a perfect pairing.
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade echoes the lemon flavor in the cookies, creating a cohesive experience.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can add freshness and balance to the richness of stuffed lemon cookies.
- Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy vanilla yogurt served on the side offers a nice contrast to the tangy flavors of the cookie.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to create an interesting flavor combination with sweet and savory notes.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For chocolate lovers, providing a chocolate dipping sauce adds an indulgent twist to these already delicious cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Stuffed Lemon Cookies can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes might ruin your treats. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:
Using old ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking ingredients, especially eggs and butter. Old ingredients can affect the flavor and texture of your cookies.
Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Make sure to chill your dough as directed for perfect shapes.
Overfilling with lemon curd: Adding too much lemon curd can cause the cookies to burst during baking. Use just enough filling to keep them intact and delicious.
Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of the baking time. Remove them when the edges are golden for best results.
Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements matter. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy to ensure consistent results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Stuffed Lemon Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer before transferring them to bags.
- Store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating Stuffed Lemon Cookies
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for 5-7 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as they may become tough.
Stovetop: For a quick reheat, place cookies in a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 1 minute, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Stuffed Lemon Cookies?
Stuffed Lemon Cookies are soft, buttery treats filled with homemade lemon curd. They offer a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that brighten any occasion.
How long do Stuffed Lemon Cookies last?
When stored properly, Stuffed Lemon Cookies can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer without losing their delicious taste.
Can I customize my Stuffed Lemon Cookies?
Absolutely! You can add different flavors or fillings like raspberry jam or chocolate ganache for a unique twist on this classic recipe. Experiment with spices like cardamom for added depth!
Are there any variations of Stuffed Lemon Cookies?
Yes! You can try using lime or orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor. Additionally, consider adding nuts or coconut flakes for extra texture.
Final Thoughts
These Stuffed Lemon Cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds but also incredibly versatile! Their soft texture combined with tangy lemon curd makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with various fillings or zests according to your preferences. Try making them today and enjoy a delightful dessert experience!
SEO Information
Stuffed Lemon Cookies
Indulge in the refreshing delight of Stuffed Lemon Cookies, a perfect blend of soft, buttery goodness and tangy lemon curd filling. These cookies are ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant tea parties. With their inviting aroma and vibrant flavor, they will surely impress your family and friends. Crafted with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels. Enjoy these delightful treats on their own or pair them with your favorite beverages for an unforgettable dessert experience.
- Total Time: 39 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup caster sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Lemon peel from 1/4 lemon
- 1.5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup caster sugar
- Zest from 3/4 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Granulated sugar for coating
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Curd Filling: Mix caster sugar and cornstarch in a bowl. Add one egg, lemon juice, and peel; cook over a bain-marie for about 10 minutes until thickened. Stir in butter until melted. Chill for at least 30 minutes, then freeze portions.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Cream room temperature butter, caster sugar, and lemon zest in a mixing bowl. Add the second egg and mix well. Gradually fold in flour, salt, and baking soda; chill dough for about 20 minutes.
- Assemble Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough into discs, place frozen filling in the center, wrap around the filling, roll in granulated sugar, and place on lined baking tray.
- Bake Cookies: Bake at 350°F for about 8–9 minutes until edges are golden. Allow to cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Chill both the dough and filling for optimal results. Experiment with different citrus zests or fillings like raspberry jam.
