Stuffed Lemon Cookies

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Introduction

Stuffed Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon with a soft, chewy texture and a sweet surprise inside. These cookies feature a tangy lemon filling tucked inside two buttery lemon cookie layers, creating a burst of flavor with every bite. Perfect for lemon lovers, these cookies are a fun twist on traditional lemon desserts. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or a dessert for a gathering, Stuffed Lemon Cookies are sure to please with their balance of sweetness and tartness.

I remember the first time I made these for a family get-together. The zesty lemon aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone couldn’t wait to try them. What’s great about these cookies is how they bring a refreshing twist to the usual cookie experience—the soft, chewy texture pairs beautifully with the tangy filling. You can enjoy them plain, or take it up a notch by dusting them with powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze for a little extra sweetness.

Making these cookies is surprisingly simple, too. With just a few ingredients, you can easily create a batch of cookies that look and taste like a gourmet treat. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy your citrus cravings, these Stuffed Lemon Cookies are guaranteed to be a hit!

Perfect for:

  • Lemon lovers
  • Family gatherings
  • Dessert trays
  • Special occasions
  • Afternoon tea

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Stuffed Lemon Cookies will become your new favorite treat:

  • Tangy Lemon Filling: The lemon filling adds a vibrant and refreshing burst of flavor inside the cookies.
  • Soft and Chewy Texture: The cookies are perfectly soft and chewy with a slight crisp edge.
  • Sweet and Tart Balance: The combination of the sweet cookie dough and tart lemon filling creates a harmonious flavor.
  • Fun and Unique: These stuffed cookies offer a fun twist on traditional cookie recipes, perfect for impressing guests.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a holiday, family gathering, or just a sweet snack, these cookies will make any occasion a little brighter.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)
  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 1 hour
  • Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Servings: 18 cookies
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 180-220 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lemon Filling:

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For Dusting:

  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon zest and juice are key for infusing the cookies with vibrant lemon flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps to create a tender, soft cookie texture.
  • Powdered Sugar: For the smooth, sweet lemon filling that contrasts beautifully with the lemony dough.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor, balancing the tartness of the lemon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Stuffed Lemon Cookies:

Make the Cookie Dough:

  1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and combined.
  4. Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.

Prepare the Lemon Filling:

  1. Mix the Lemon Filling: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and softened butter. Beat until smooth and creamy.
  2. Chill the Filling: Place the lemon filling in the refrigerator while you prepare the cookies to firm it up slightly, making it easier to handle.

Assemble the Stuffed Cookies:

  1. Chill the Dough: Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make it easier to handle and prevent spreading during baking.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Shape the Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Flatten each ball into a disc using your hands or the bottom of a glass.
  4. Add the Filling: Place a small spoonful (about 1 tsp) of lemon filling in the center of one cookie disc. Top with another cookie disc and press the edges together to seal, forming a sandwich.
  5. Bake the Cookies: Place the stuffed cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
  6. Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve and Garnish:

  1. Dust with Sugar (Optional): Once cooled, you can dust the cookies with a little granulated sugar and lemon zest for extra flavor and a pretty finish.
  2. Enjoy: Serve the cookies chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the delicious lemon surprise inside!

How to Serve

  • For Afternoon Tea: Pair with a cup of tea for a refreshing and elegant treat.
  • With a Scoop of Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet for an extra indulgence.
  • As a Dessert for Guests: These cookies are perfect for parties, potlucks, or gatherings.
  • With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries to complement the lemon flavor.

Additional Tips

  • Chill the dough before shaping the cookies to prevent them from spreading too much during baking.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
  • Make sure the lemon filling is thick enough to hold its shape, but not too stiff to make it difficult to work with.
  • These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Recipe Variations

  1. Lemon and Raspberry Stuffed Cookies
  2. Lemon and White Chocolate Stuffed Cookies
  3. Lemon and Blueberry Stuffed Cookies
  4. Lemon Poppy Seed Stuffed Cookies
  5. Lemon and Coconut Stuffed Cookies
  6. Vegan Stuffed Lemon Cookies
  7. Lemon Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies
  8. Lemon and Almond Stuffed Cookies
  9. Lemon and Lavender Stuffed Cookies
  10. Lemon and Ginger Stuffed Cookies

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze the unbaked stuffed cookies (before baking) on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
  • Storage: Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment

  • Electric mixer
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling pin (optional)
  • Zester or microplane for lemon zest
  • Cooling rack

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
  2. Can I freeze the dough? Yes, wrap the dough tightly and freeze for up to 1 month before baking.
  3. Can I add other fillings? Yes, try adding fruit preserves or cream cheese for a different twist.
  4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking? Be sure to seal the edges of the cookies tightly before baking.
  5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

Conclusion

Stuffed Lemon Cookies are a burst of sunshine in every bite. With a sweet, tangy lemon filling nestled inside two soft, buttery cookies, these treats are a dream for any lemon lover. The balance of sweetness and zesty lemon creates a refreshing flavor that’s perfect for brightening any occasion.

These cookies are as delightful to make as they are to eat, making them ideal for everything from a casual snack to a special celebration. Whether you’re baking them for yourself or sharing with friends and family, these stuffed lemon cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

I’d love to see how your Stuffed Lemon Cookies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!

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