These Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are soft, buttery, and filled with a tangy lemon curd that makes each bite delightful. Perfect for tea parties, holiday trays, or a midweek treat, these cookies are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup (130g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup (120g) lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup softened butter and 2/3 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Gradually add 2 cups flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to press an indentation in the center of each cookie.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and reinforce the indentations using a small spoon if needed.
- Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of lemon curd into each indentation.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 2-5 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Pair with fresh berries for added color and flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Use cold butter for a crisper cookie and softened butter for a softer texture.
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes before shaping to prevent spreading.
- If you don’t have lemon curd, substitute with your favorite fruit jam.
Nutritional Benefits
- Butter provides a rich source of healthy fats and vitamin A.
- Lemon curd adds vitamin C and a tangy flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free flour as a substitute)
- Nut-Free: Yes
Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze cookies without filling for up to 2 months; add lemon curd after thawing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- The tangy lemon curd perfectly complements the buttery cookies.
- Versatile for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings.
- They are visually appealing and always a crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are a classic treat that will brighten your day with their buttery texture and zesty filling. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or simply indulging in a sweet moment, these cookies are the perfect companion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use store-bought lemon curd? Yes, it works perfectly for convenience.
- How do I make homemade lemon curd? Combine eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and butter over low heat, stirring until thickened.
- Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, freeze the cookies without filling and add lemon curd after thawing.
- What can I use instead of lemon curd? Try jam, marmalade, or Nutella for variety.
- Do I need to refrigerate these cookies? Only if they’re filled with lemon curd; otherwise, room temperature storage is fine.
- Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze for 1 month.
- Can I add zest to the dough? Absolutely, lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor.
- What flour can I use for a gluten-free option? Almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix works well.
- How do I prevent cookies from spreading? Chill the dough before baking and avoid overmixing.
- Can I make mini thumbprints? Yes, use a teaspoon of dough for smaller cookies and adjust baking time.