Lemon Curd Cookies

 

Lemon Curd Cookies (Soft, Buttery & Zesty)

 

Introduction

Lemon Curd Cookies are soft, buttery cookies filled with a bright and tangy lemon curd center. They perfectly balance sweetness and citrus freshness, making them ideal for afternoon tea, dessert tables, holidays, or even small baking businesses. These cookies look elegant, taste refreshing, and are surprisingly easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough:

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• Lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light, creamy, and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and mix well until fully combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Tip: If the dough feels too soft or sticky, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before shaping.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
4. Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Step 3: Fill with Lemon Curd

• Spoon a small amount of lemon curd into each indentation.
• Do not overfill, as the curd may spread during baking.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. The centers should remain soft.
3. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Curd Cookies

• Use real butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Lemon zest adds aroma and freshness—do not skip it.
• Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft.
• For an elegant finish, dust with powdered sugar once cooled.

Storage Instructions

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 7 days.
• Cookie dough can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and buttery texture
Fresh lemon flavor
Easy and beginner-friendly
Perfect for tea time or gifting