Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that balances sweetness and tartness, mouthwatering lemon bar cookie cups are the perfect confection to satisfy your cravings. These deliciously soft cookie cups are filled with a zesty lemon curd that brings a refreshing burst of flavor. Perfect for any gathering or as a satisfying dessert, these cookie cups are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Cookies:
– 2¾ cups flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup butter (softened)
– 1¼ cups sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Curd Filling:
– 6 tablespoons butter (softened)
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 whole eggs and 2 yolks
– ⅔ cup lemon juice
For the Topping:
– Lemon zest from 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for garnish)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookie cups
Enjoy creating these lemon bar cookie cups that not only look delightful but also offer a burst of refreshing flavor in every bite. Perfect for sharing or enjoying yourself, these treats are a must-try for any lemon lover!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2¾ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of baking powder until well combined. In a separate bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1¼ cups of sugar until the mixture is fluffy. Add in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Bake the Cookie Cups
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the prepared cookie dough into small balls and place them into a greased mini muffin tin, leaving some space in between. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Once removed from the oven, immediately press the center of each cookie ball down with a small spoon or your finger to create a cup shape. Allow them to cool completely in the tin.
Make the Lemon Curd
In a saucepan, cream together 6 tablespoons of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Whisk in 2 whole eggs and 2 yolks until well blended, followed by ⅔ cup of lemon juice. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Assemble
Once the cookie cups have cooled, fill each with the prepared lemon curd, ensuring an even distribution. Chill the filled cookie cups in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the tops with lemon zest from 1 lemon and dust with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Notes
Storage
These cookie cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookie cups, with each serving containing around 120 kcal.
Variations
Experiment with the lemon curd by adding a bit of lemon zest into the curd mixture for extra flavor, or consider using different citrus juices for a twist on the classic lemon flavor.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Ensure that the flour, baking soda, and baking powder are thoroughly mixed together. This step is crucial for even distribution of the leavening agents.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Beat the softened butter with sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, helping to create a tender cookie texture.
Shaping and Baking Cookie Cups
After forming dough balls, place them in a mini muffin tin. Bake until golden and immediately press down the center to shape the cups while they are still warm.
Making Lemon Curd
Cream softened butter and sugar until smooth, then whisk in eggs and lemon juice. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens to achieve the right consistency.
Assembling Cookie Cups
Fill each cooled cookie cup with lemon curd, then chill to set. Finally, add lemon zest and a dusting of powdered sugar for garnish.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making my own?
Yes, using store-bought lemon curd can save time and still provide delicious results.
Store the cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Yes, you can freeze the assembled cookie cups. Just be sure to allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
What can I substitute for fresh lemon juice?
You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh juice will yield a brighter flavor.
The cookie cups should be golden brown around the edges. You can also insert a toothpick to check if it comes out clean.
Conclusion
Indulging in these Mouthwatering Lemon Bar Cookie Cups is a delightful experience that balances the buttery richness of the cookie with the zesty brightness of the lemon curd. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a refreshing twist on traditional lemon bars and are sure to impress your guests with their taste and presentation.
Berry Blast Cookie Cups
Combine your cookie cups with a mixed berry compote for a fruity and vibrant filling. Use strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful and delicious twist.
Chocolate Hazelnut Swirl Cups
For a decadent treat, swirl some chocolate hazelnut spread into the lemon curd filling before filling the cookie cups. The rich chocolate complements the tart lemon beautifully.
Coconut Lime Cookie Cups
Switch up the citrus by making a lime curd filling and adding shredded coconut to the cookie dough for a tropical flair that transports you to a sunny beach.
Raspberry Lemonade Cookie Cups
Add some raspberry puree to the lemon curd for a delightful flavor combination. The sweet and tart balance is perfect for summer gatherings.
Nutella Marshmallow Cookie Cups
Fill the cookie cups with Nutella and top them with toasted mini marshmallows for a s’mores-inspired treat that’s sure to be a hit.
Minty Fresh Lime Cups
Incorporate fresh mint into your lime curd for a refreshing touch. These cookie cups are ideal for warm-weather treat options.
Spiced Apple Pie Cups
Create a cozy autumn flavor by filling your cookie cups with spiced apple pie filling. The warm spices will give a delightful twist to the cookies.
