Description
Discover the perfect blend of buttery and tangy with our Lemon Thumbprint Cookies. These cookies feature a soft, tender base with a luscious lemon curd center that adds a refreshing burst of citrus. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies are easy to make and will impress with their delightful flavor and elegant appearance.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Curd Filling:
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Curd:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and egg yolks.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter pieces until smooth.
- Pour the lemon curd into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface, and refrigerate until completely cool.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and creamy.
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
- Shape and Chill the Dough:
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie.
- Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the chilled cookies for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- If the indentations have puffed up during baking, gently press them down again while the cookies are still warm.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Fill the Cookies:
- Once the cookies are cool, spoon the chilled lemon curd into the center of each cookie.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
For best results, ensure the lemon curd is completely chilled before filling the cookies.
You can use store-bought lemon curd as a time-saving option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 150 kcal
Keywords: Lemon Thumbprint Cookies, Lemon Cookies, Thumbprint Cookies with Lemon Curd, Citrus Cookies, Lemon Dessert Recipes