Lemon Curd Cookies

Lemon Curd Cookies are delicate shortbread-style cookies filled with a bright and tangy lemon curd center, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Buttery, soft, and bursting with citrus flavor, these elegant treats are perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or holiday trays.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies strike a perfect balance between sweet and tart, offering a soft, buttery base with a vibrant lemon center. They’re easy to make, visually appealing, and ideal for lemon lovers who appreciate a refreshing citrus twist in their desserts. With their rich texture and light zing, they bring a sophisticated touch to any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies:

• all-purpose flour
• unsalted butter, softened
• granulated sugar
• powdered sugar
• vanilla extract
• salt

For the Lemon Curd Filling:

• lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
• powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
   Mix in the vanilla extract and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

2. Chill the Dough:
   Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

3. Shape the Cookies:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
   Cut out rounds using a cookie cutter and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Create a Well for the Lemon Curd:
   Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, gently press a shallow well into the center of each cookie.

5. Fill with Lemon Curd:
   Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of lemon curd into each indentation.

6. Bake:
   Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
   Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Cool & Serve:
   Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 150 kcal per cookie

Variations

• Mini Sandwich Style: Bake two thinner cookies and sandwich lemon curd between them.
• Zesty Dough: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for enhanced citrus flavor.
• Different Curds: Try orange, raspberry, or passion fruit curd as an alternative to lemon.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free cookie.
• Piped Cookies: Pipe the dough into swirls and fill the center with curd for a more decorative presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If chilled, allow to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor. These cookies do not require reheating and can also be frozen (unfilled) for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Yes, store-bought lemon curd works perfectly and saves time. Choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure the dough is chilled properly before baking and avoid overworking the dough.

Can I freeze these cookies?

You can freeze the unfilled cookie dough or baked cookies without curd. Add the lemon curd after thawing for best texture and appearance.

What’s the best way to fill the cookies neatly?

Use a small spoon or piping bag for a precise and clean filling.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking.

Can I make homemade lemon curd?

Absolutely. Homemade lemon curd will elevate the flavor and can be made with lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and butter.

Do these cookies stay soft?

Yes, they maintain a tender shortbread-like texture and do not harden excessively.

Can I make these into bars instead of cookies?

Yes, press the dough into a baking dish, bake as a base, and top with lemon curd. Slice into bars after chilling.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch.

Are these cookies overly sweet?

No, the sweetness is balanced by the tartness of the lemon curd and the buttery richness of the cookie base.

Conclusion

Lemon Curd Cookies are a delightful blend of rich shortbread and zesty citrus, creating a treat that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether served with tea, gifted during the holidays, or made as a sunny pick-me-up, these cookies offer a lovely burst of flavor and elegance in every bite.