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Zesty Lemon Curd Cookies


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 42 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies

Description

Bright, buttery, and bursting with citrus, these Zesty Lemon Curd Cookies are the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Each cookie cradles a luscious spoonful of lemon curd atop a soft, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread base. Ideal for spring baking, easy dessert ideas, or crowd-pleasing food gifts, they’re a must for any lemon lover. Great for holiday trays, quick treats, and cheerful breakfast ideas, these easy cookies are a go-to for both flavor and beauty.


Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon lemon zest

½ cup granulated sugar

2 large egg yolks

¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed

Powdered sugar, for dusting


Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, zest, sugar, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (5–7 minutes).

2. Remove from heat, stir in butter until smooth. Strain through a sieve, cool, and refrigerate.

3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, beat until combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture.

5. Chill dough for 15–20 minutes. Scoop into 1.5 tbsp balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. Press a thumbprint or teaspoon into each dough ball to create a well.

7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

8. If needed, gently re-indent centers while warm. Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

9. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of chilled lemon curd into each indentation.

10. Dust cookie edges with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Always strain your lemon curd for the smoothest finish.

Chill the dough to avoid spreading and to maintain that perfect round shape.

Fill the cookies after baking for a fresher curd flavor and glossy finish.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 45mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: lemon cookies, lemon curd, thumbprint cookies, citrus dessert, summer baking, easy recipe, food ideas