Lemon Curd Cookies

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Lemon Curd

1. Prepare a Double Boiler: In a heatproof bowl, combine the lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
2. Cook the Mixture: Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
3. Cool the Curd: Transfer the lemon curd to a container, cover it with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until fully chilled, about 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop and Shape: Once the dough is chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
3. Create a Well: Use your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
4. Fill with Lemon Curd: Spoon a small amount of lemon curd into the well of each cookie, being careful not to overfill.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will give your cookies the best flavor.
• Store Properly: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
• Decorate: Consider dusting the cookies with powdered sugar or adding a glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.

Conclusion

Lemon curd cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the tanginess of lemon with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. They’re easy to make, visually appealing, and sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or as a refreshing dessert after a meal, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and savor the sunshine in every bite!