Tangy Lemon Butter Cookies Recipe

Craving a delightful treat that combines the zesty goodness of lemon bars with the rich decadence of butter cookies? Look no further than these irresistible Lemon Bar Butter Cookies! Imagine a buttery cookie base cradling a luscious pool of tangy lemon curd – it’s a match made in dessert heaven. These cookies have become a staple at my gatherings, where they never fail to steal the spotlight.

The inspiration for these Lemon Bar Butter Cookies struck me during a summer potluck dilemma, and since then, they’ve become a crowd favorite at every event. From baby showers to birthday parties, these cookies have earned a reputation for disappearing faster than I can set them out. The secret to their perfection lies in patience – from letting the cream cheese soften to allowing the flavors to meld, each step contributes to creating a truly memorable treat. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a batch of pure bliss with these Lemon Bar Butter Cookies.

Quick Benefits

• Combines the sweet-tart flavor of lemon bars with the rich, buttery texture of cookies for a delightful mashup experience
• Perfect for special occasions and gatherings, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more
• Versatile and customizable – try different variations such as meyer lemons, cardamom, or rosemary to create unique flavor profiles
• Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them a convenient make-ahead dessert option for events

Why You’ll Love This Tangy Lemon Butter Cookies Recipe Recipe

• Perfect fusion of sweet-tart lemon bars and rich butter cookies creates a unique and delightful flavor experience
• Each bite offers a buttery cookie base with a luscious lemon curd center, creating a balance of flavors and textures that will surprise and delight your taste buds
• Highly praised by family and friends, making them a crowd favorite and a must-have dessert for special occasions
• Versatile and adaptable recipe – try different variations like meyer lemons, cardamom, rosemary, or lime for exciting flavor twists
• Ideal for various events and gatherings, from afternoon teas to summer cookouts, weddings, baby showers, and holiday celebrations
• Enjoy them chilled with ice cream or paired with prosecco, champagne, or tea for a sophisticated and indulgent treat
• Storage and make-ahead tips make this recipe convenient for busy schedules and planning ahead
• Despite requiring a bit more effort, the rewarding taste and reactions from those who try them make the preparation entirely worthwhile

Ingredients for Tangy Lemon Butter Cookies Recipe

Homemade Lemon Curd

• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 large lemons)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, sliced into tablespoons
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice (2-3 large lemons)

Gooey Butter Cookies

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 cups (286g) all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
• 1 cup powdered sugar for coating
• 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended)
• 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Tangy Lemon Butter Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Make the lemon curd

In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch until smooth. Add lemon zest and juice, whisk to combine.

Step 2: Cook the lemon curd

Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally at first and then constantly as it thickens. This should take about 8-10 minutes on a gas stovetop or 20 minutes on electric until the curd coats the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Finish and chill the curd

Take the mixture off the heat and mix in the butter until melted and well combined. Transfer the curd to a wide, shallow heat-proof dish, cover, and refrigerate until needed for the cookie dough.

Step 4: Prepare for baking

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

Step 5: Mix dry ingredients

Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Step 6: Cream butter and cheese

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer with the paddle attachment to beat cream cheese and butter on medium-high speed until smooth. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then mix again.

Step 7: Add sugar and eggs

While the mixer is running on medium speed, gradually add the sugar. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for approximately 1 minute. Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if desired). Scrape the bowl and mix until fully combined.

Step 8: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until just mixed, avoiding overmixing. Use a rubber spatula to incorporate any dry bits from the bottom of the bowl. The dough should have a thick, sticky consistency.

Step 9: Shape the cookies

Place powdered sugar in a small bowl. Use a large cookie scoop to form dough balls, coat them in powdered sugar, and arrange 5 balls evenly spaced on a baking sheet.

Step 10: Create indentations

Press the center of each dough ball with the back of a rounded tablespoon or your thumb to create an indent for the lemon curd.

Step 11: Add lemon curd

Spoon a teaspoon of chilled lemon curd into each cookie indentation.

Step 12: Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cookies flatten and the curd turns pale and bubbly. The curd will appear pale upon removal from the oven but will brighten as the cookies cool.

Step 13: Cool and set

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Bake the remaining cookies in batches. Refrigerate the cooled cookies for 15 minutes to set the curd completely.

Step 14: Final touch

Sprinkle the edges of each cookie with remaining powdered sugar, keeping the lemon curd in the center exposed. Enjoy!

Storage Tips

Once you have made these delightful Lemon Bar Butter Cookies, storing them properly will help maintain their freshness and flavor. Place the cookies in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The cookies will stay fresh for about 5 days when refrigerated. Interestingly, the flavors of these cookies tend to meld together and develop even more on the second day, making them taste even better. So, if you can resist the temptation to devour them all at once, you may find that the cookies are a delightful treat to enjoy over a couple of days.

If you plan to make these cookies ahead of an event, you can freeze the unfilled cookies. When you’re ready to serve them, thaw the cookies and add the freshly made lemon curd the day before the event. To ensure the best texture experience, remember to bring the cookies to room temperature about 20 minutes before serving. This storage method allows you to prepare these delicious cookies in advance without compromising their taste and texture, making them a convenient and impressive dessert option for various gatherings and occasions.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to switch up the flavor profile of these Lemon Bar Butter Cookies, consider using meyer lemons instead of regular lemons in the curd. Meyer lemons have a softer, more floral taste that is less tart than traditional lemons, adding a unique twist to the recipe. Additionally, adding a pinch of cardamom to the cookie dough can introduce a warm and fragrant note that complements the lemon beautifully. For a festive variation, try incorporating a bit of rosemary into the dough, bringing a subtle pine flavor that is perfect for winter holidays.

If you are looking for a summer-inspired twist on these cookies, consider making a lime version with toasted coconut around the edges. Lime provides a tangy and refreshing flavor that pairs well with the buttery cookie base, while the toasted coconut adds a delicious crunch and tropical flair. These variations allow you to customize the cookies to suit different occasions and preferences, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing treat for any gathering.

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Bar Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that can be served in various creative ways. For a sophisticated afternoon tea, arrange the cookies on a tiered stand alongside dainty finger sandwiches and a selection of fresh berries. The bright lemon flavor pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or iced tea, creating a refreshing and elegant spread.

For a more indulgent dessert option, serve these cookies slightly chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the cold, tangy lemon curd filling with the creamy ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. Pair these cookies with a glass of prosecco or champagne for a celebratory event like a wedding or baby shower, where their vibrant citrus flavor and pretty appearance will surely impress your guests.

FAQs for Tangy Lemon Butter Cookies Recipe

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice for the lemon curd?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor in this recipe. The bottled version may have a different taste and acidity level that can affect the overall outcome of the lemon curd.

Can I skip the almond extract in the cookie dough?

While the almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the lemon, you can omit it if you prefer. The cookies will still turn out delicious with just the vanilla extract.

Can I make the cookie dough and lemon curd ahead of time and assemble them later?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough and lemon curd separately ahead of time. Store the cookie dough in the fridge and the lemon curd in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the cookies as directed in the recipe.

How can I prevent the cookie dough from becoming too sticky while working with it?

If the dough becomes too sticky to handle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Additionally, lightly flouring your hands and work surface can help prevent sticking while shaping the cookies.

Conclusion

If you decide to give these Lemon Bar Butter Cookies a try, I promise you won’t be disappointed. The delicate balance of buttery richness and zesty lemon flavor is truly something special. The process may require a bit of patience and practice, but the end result is absolutely worth it. These cookies have become a staple at my family gatherings and special occasions, and I hope they bring just as much joy to your loved ones as they have to mine.

Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée, planning a cozy tea party, or simply looking for a delightful treat to brighten your day, Lemon Bar Butter Cookies are a delicious choice. The versatility of this recipe allows for creative variations and personal touches, making it a fun and rewarding baking experience. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these delightful cookies, and savor every bite of the sweet, tangy goodness that Lemon Bar Butter Cookies have to offer.