Stuffed Lemon Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe and Baking Guide

Stuffed lemon cookies, a delightful twist on a classic treat, are about to become your new favorite indulgence! Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie, only to be greeted by a burst of tangy, sweet lemon curd hidden within. It’s a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of stuffed lemon cookies are a bit of a mystery, the concept of stuffing cookies with delicious fillings has been around for ages. Think of Italian biscotti filled with almonds or jam-filled Linzer cookies – the possibilities are endless! This particular variation, however, elevates the humble lemon cookie to a whole new level of sophistication.

What makes these cookies so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The slight tartness of the lemon curd cuts through the sweetness of the cookie dough, creating a harmonious blend that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, the soft, chewy texture of the cookie combined with the smooth, creamy filling is simply divine. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for a special occasion or a simple treat to brighten your day, these stuffed lemon cookies are sure to impress. Get ready to bake up a batch of sunshine!

Ingredients:

• For the Cookie Dough:
• 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 2 large lemons
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• For the Lemon Filling:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large egg yolk, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For Rolling:
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Preparing the Lemon Filling:

Let’s start with the lemon filling, as it needs time to cool completely. This step is crucial for preventing the filling from melting out of the cookies during baking. Trust me, patience here pays off!

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps of cornstarch – a smooth mixture is key.
2. Add Water and Lemon Juice: Gradually whisk in the water and lemon juice until everything is well combined. The mixture should be smooth and free of any clumps.
3. Cook the Filling: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens significantly. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t stop stirring, or you risk burning the bottom! You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
4. Temper the Egg Yolk: Remove the saucepan from the heat. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk lightly. Slowly drizzle a small amount of the hot lemon mixture into the egg yolk, whisking constantly to temper it. This prevents the egg yolk from scrambling when added to the hot mixture.
5. Combine and Finish Cooking: Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan and whisk to combine. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the filling is smooth and glossy.
6. Add Butter, Zest, and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. The butter will add richness and a lovely sheen to the filling. The zest and vanilla enhance the lemon flavor.
7. Cool Completely: Pour the lemon filling into a heat-safe bowl. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, until completely cooled and thickened. This is a very important step!

Making the Cookie Dough:

Now that the lemon filling is chilling, let’s move on to the cookie dough. This dough is easy to work with and has a wonderful lemon flavor that complements the filling perfectly.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which will result in a more evenly baked cookie.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should be pale and airy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Add Lemon Zest and Juice: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. The zest adds a concentrated lemon flavor, while the juice adds a touch of tanginess.
5. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will make the dough easier to handle and prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Assembling and Baking the Cookies:

The final step! This is where the magic happens. We’ll assemble the cookies, stuff them with the delicious lemon filling, and bake them to golden perfection.

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Scoop the Dough: Scoop out rounded tablespoons of cookie dough. I like to use a cookie scoop to ensure that all the cookies are the same size.
3. Flatten and Fill: Flatten each dough ball slightly with your fingers. Place about 1 teaspoon of the chilled lemon filling in the center of each flattened dough ball.
4. Seal the Cookies: Gently bring the edges of the dough up and around the filling, pinching to seal completely. Make sure the filling is completely enclosed to prevent it from leaking out during baking. Roll the sealed cookie between your palms to form a smooth ball.
5. Roll in Powdered Sugar: Roll each cookie ball in powdered sugar, coating it generously. The powdered sugar will create a beautiful crackled effect on the surface of the cookies as they bake.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. This allows for proper air circulation and prevents the cookies from sticking together.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The cookies should be soft in the center.
8. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overbake: Overbaked cookies will be dry and crumbly. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven when the edges are lightly golden brown.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest will give the cookies the best flavor.
• Store Properly: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Variations:

• Add White Chocolate Chips: Stir in 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips to the cookie dough for added sweetness and flavor.
• Use Different Citrus: Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as orange or grapefruit, for a unique twist.
• Add a Glaze: Drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple lemon glaze for extra sweetness and shine. To make the glaze, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth.

Enjoy these delightful stuffed lemon cookies! They’re perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These stuffed lemon cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an experience. The bright, zesty lemon cookie, perfectly balanced with the sweet, creamy filling, creates a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a good cookie, and especially for those who appreciate the refreshing tang of lemon. Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor, it’s surprisingly simple to make. The dough comes together quickly, and the filling is a breeze to whip up. Plus, the “wow” factor is off the charts! Imagine presenting a plate of these beauties at your next gathering. They’re guaranteed to be a conversation starter and a crowd-pleaser. Forget store-bought cookies; these homemade delights are in a league of their own. They offer a unique combination of textures and tastes that you simply won’t find anywhere else. The slight chewiness of the cookie, combined with the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth filling, is pure bliss. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with serving suggestions and variations. For a truly decadent experience, try serving these cookies slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the cookie will melt the ice cream just a little, creating a heavenly combination. You could also crumble them over yogurt or use them as a base for mini cheesecakes. Looking for variations? Consider adding a touch of lavender to the cookie dough for a floral twist. Or, if you’re a chocolate lover, try drizzling melted dark chocolate over the finished cookies. For a festive touch, roll the edges of the cookies in sprinkles before baking. You could even experiment with different fillings, such as a raspberry jam or a Nutella ganache. The possibilities are endless! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover the magic of these stuffed lemon cookies for yourself. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. Don’t be intimidated by the “stuffed” element; it’s easier than you think! Just follow the instructions carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a batch of cookies that are truly unforgettable. Now, it’s your turn! I encourage you to head into the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did your friends and family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear all about your baking adventures. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these delightful stuffed lemon cookies! Let me know if you have any questions along the way – I’m here to help! I hope this recipe becomes a new favorite in your household, just as it has in mine.

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