Lemon Cookies with Lemon Cream

Introduction

Lemon cookies with lemon cream are a delightful treat that brings the zesty and refreshing flavor of lemons to your dessert table. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a sunny afternoon, a party, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. The combination of the buttery cookie base and the tangy lemon cream filling creates a delicious balance that is sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the cookies:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt

For the lemon cream filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Prep Time

Prep time for these delicious lemon cookies is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, preparing the cookie dough, and mixing the lemon cream filling.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for baking the cookies is about 10-12 minutes. In total, from prep to finish, the process will take around 30-35 minutes. This recipe yields about 24 cookies, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the bright, citrusy flavor that each bite offers!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy and light in color.

Add Lemon Zest and Juice

Mix in the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice into the butter mixture until well combined.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Scoop and Shape Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.

Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Lemon Cream Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Add lemon juice and zest, mixing until well combined.

Assemble the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled, spread a layer of the lemon cream filling on the bottom side of one cookie and top it with another cookie, creating a sandwich.

Notes

Storage Instructions

Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the filling fresh.

Variations

You can substitute lime juice and zest for a lime version of these cookies.

Make Ahead Tips

The cookie dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are great for parties, as a dessert, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Cook techniques

Chilling the Dough

Chilling the cookie dough helps to prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies with a better texture.

Using Fresh Fruit Zest

Incorporating fresh lemon zest into the cookie dough enhances the citrus flavor and aroma, making the cookies more vibrant.

Rolling and Cutting

For uniform cookies, roll the dough to an even thickness before cutting them into shapes. This ensures even baking.

Baking on Parchment Paper

Using parchment paper on the baking sheet prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

Cooling on Wire Racks

Allowing cookies to cool on wire racks prevents them from becoming soggy and maintains their crispness.

FAQ

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Lemon cookies can typically stay fresh in an airtight container for about 4 to 5 days.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, the cookie dough can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly.

What can I use instead of lemon cream?

If you don’t have lemon cream, you can substitute it with a simple lemon glaze or even a buttercream frosting.

Are these cookies suitable for making ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and chill or freeze it until you’re ready to bake.

Conclusion

The lemon cookies with lemon cream offer a delightful burst of citrus flavor, making them a refreshing treat for any occasion. Their soft texture combined with the creamy lemon frosting creates a perfect balance that is sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed on their own or served at gatherings, these cookies will leave a lasting impression.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Blueberry Lemon Cookies

Combine the tangy flavor of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries for a vibrant twist on classic lemon cookies.

Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Add poppy seeds to your lemon cookie batter for an extra crunch and a beautiful contrast in texture.

Lemon Cream Sandwich Cookies

Make two cookies filled with lemon cream in between for a delightful sandwich treat that boosts the creaminess.

Lemon Zest Shortbread Cookies

Incorporate lemon zest into buttery shortbread cookies for a crispy, flavor-packed cookie with a zesty kick.

Lemon Coconut Cookies

Mix shredded coconut into your lemon cookie dough for a tropical flair that elevates the citrus flavor.

Lemon Crinkle Cookies

Dust your lemon cookies with powdered sugar before baking to create crinkles and a sweet finish that enhances their look and taste.