Hello, dear baking enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on a citrusy baking journey with our Zesty Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies? These cookies are not just any ordinary treat; they’re a burst of sunshine with a gooey lemon curd filling that will leave your taste buds singing! Whether you’re a fan of zesty flavors, soft-baked cookies, or simply love the refreshing taste of lemon, this recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy delight. Get your apron ready as we dive into the world of lemony goodness!
Introduction
If you adore the invigorating, bright flavor of lemon desserts, then these Lemon Sugar Cookies with a Gooey Lemon Curd Filling are a must-try. This recipe brings together the buttery softness of classic sugar cookies with the intense citrus zing of homemade lemon curd, creating a dessert that’s light, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Lemon desserts have a unique charm, often tied to sunny summer days or festive occasions, and these cookies are no exception. Perfect for afternoon tea, picnics, or holiday gatherings, they’re guaranteed to be a hit among friends and family alike. With their refreshing lemon twist, these cookies are a wonderful way to brighten any day!
Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies
To whip up these delicious Zesty Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (preferably from organic lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- Gluten-free flour blends can replace all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities.
- You can use organic cane sugar instead of regular granulated sugar for a slightly healthier touch.
How to Make Zesty Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies – Step by Step
Crafting these delightful Lemon Sugar Cookies with Gooey Lemon Curd Filling is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and won’t stick.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
One at a time, add the eggs, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest, infusing the batter with a tangy aroma.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the dough is formed. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 5: Form the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Using your thumb, create a small well in the center of each ball for the lemon curd filling.
Step 6: Add the Gooey Filling
Spoon a small amount of lemon curd into the well, then carefully wrap the dough around the filling, rolling it back into a smooth ball.
Step 7: Coat and Bake
Roll each cookie in extra granulated sugar for a sweet coating, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool completely. Once cool, the center will be a delicious, gooey surprise waiting to be enjoyed!
Helpful Tips for Perfect Zesty Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies
To make the best Lemon Sugar Cookies with Lemon Curd, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant taste fresh lemons bring.
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature before starting. This helps achieve the perfect creamy texture when creaming with sugar.
- If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest by an extra teaspoon.
- For a thicker cookie, refrigerate the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
- Use a piping bag to add the lemon curd if you want a neater, more controlled filling.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lemon Sugar Cookies
To elevate your baking game, try these Best Lemon Cookie Hacks:
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes will help the flavors meld and result in a thicker, chewier cookie.
- Check Your Oven: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the cookies during the last few minutes of baking. They should be light golden at the edges but soft in the center.
- Avoid Over-Baking: Remove the cookies from the oven just as the edges turn golden. They may look slightly underdone in the center, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Sift the Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt ensures a smoother dough, making the final cookies soft and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Sugar Cookies
These Zesty Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies pair wonderfully with:
- A hot cup of Earl Grey tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- A refreshing glass of lemonade during a summer picnic.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert twist.
- Serve them on a pretty platter lined with doilies for a tea party or as a delightful treat for brunch gatherings.
For a more festive touch, consider sprinkling a light dusting of powdered sugar over the cookies right before serving.
Nutritional Information for Zesty Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies
These cookies are a delightful sweet treat, and here’s a brief look at their nutritional benefits. With the zesty lemon adding a dose of vitamin C and the cookie base bringing in satisfying carbs and fats, these cookies strike a tasty balance between indulgence and energy.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 145 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Vitamin C: 3% DV
- Calcium: 1% DV
- Iron: 4% DV
Storage and Leftovers for Lemon Sugar Cookies
To keep these Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies fresh and flavorful, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They’ll remain soft and chewy, perfect for quick snacking!
- Refrigeration: If you’ve used homemade lemon curd, consider refrigerating the cookies in a sealed container to keep them fresh for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm the cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds to make the centers gooey again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lemon Sugar Cookies
1. Can I use store-bought lemon curd for the filling?
Yes! Store-bought lemon curd works perfectly and saves time. However, for the freshest and tangiest flavor, consider making your own.
2. How do I make homemade lemon curd?
It’s simple! Combine lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking until thickened. Strain and cool before using.
3. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your cookies spread too much, the dough might be too warm. Try chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best results.
Related Recipes for Lemon Cookie Lovers
If you love these Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies, check out these similar recipes:
Conclusion
And there you have it – a delightfully sweet and tangy recipe for Zesty Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies! These cookies are a fantastic addition to any dessert menu, bringing a bright and refreshing citrus flavor to the table. We’d love to hear your thoughts, so please leave a comment below if you try this recipe. Feel free to share your personal variations or favorite ways to serve these cookies!
Whether you’re a long-time lemon lover or new to the world of zesty desserts, these cookies are sure to become a household favorite. Happy baking!
Print
Lemon Sugar Cookies with Gooey Lemon Curd Filling
Description
Hello, dear baking enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on a citrusy baking journey with our Zesty Lemon Sugar Bliss Cookies? These cookies are not just any ordinary treat; they’re a burst of sunshine with a gooey lemon curd filling that will leave your taste buds singing! Whether you’re a fan of zesty flavors, soft-baked cookies, or simply love the refreshing taste of lemon, this recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy delight. Get your apron ready as we dive into the world of lemony goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (preferably from organic lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- Gluten-free flour blends can replace all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities.
- You can use organic cane sugar instead of regular granulated sugar for a slightly healthier touch.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and won’t stick.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
One at a time, add the eggs, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest, infusing the batter with a tangy aroma.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the dough is formed. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
Step 5: Form the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Using your thumb, create a small well in the center of each ball for the lemon curd filling.
Step 6: Add the Gooey Filling
Spoon a small amount of lemon curd into the well, then carefully wrap the dough around the filling, rolling it back into a smooth ball.
Step 7: Coat and Bake
Roll each cookie in extra granulated sugar for a sweet coating, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool completely. Once cool, the center will be a delicious, gooey surprise waiting to be enjoyed!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant taste fresh lemons bring.
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature before starting. This helps achieve the perfect creamy texture when creaming with sugar.
- If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest by an extra teaspoon.
- For a thicker cookie, refrigerate the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
- Use a piping bag to add the lemon curd if you want a neater, more controlled filling.
