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Lemon Cookies with Lemon Cream combine the tangy zest of lemon with the comforting richness of buttery cookies. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of crisp cookie and smooth, creamy lemon filling. This recipe is ideal for special occasions or simply as a delightful treat to brighten your day.
Why You’ll Love Them
These cookies bring a refreshing burst of citrus flavor balanced by a luscious lemon buttercream. They’re versatile, perfect for tea parties, picnics, or a quiet evening treat. Their simple preparation and elegant flavor make them a crowd-pleaser every time.
Key Ingredients
- Sugar and Lemon Zest: The foundation of the recipe, infusing the dough with vibrant citrus flavor.
- Cream Cheese and Butter: Create a rich, tender texture in both the cookies and filling.
- Lemon Juice: Adds tanginess and brightens the overall flavor.
- Egg Yolk: Provides moisture and helps bind the dough.
- Vanilla Extract: Balances the tartness of the lemon with subtle warmth.
- Flour: Ensures the cookies hold their shape and stay tender.
Preparing the Dough
Blend granulated sugar and lemon zest together to release the citrus oils. Cream this mixture with softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add egg yolk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour until a cohesive dough forms.
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Shaping the Cookies
Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe uniform rounds onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between for spreading. This ensures even baking and a perfect fit for sandwiching with the lemon cream.
Baking the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Lemon Cream
Whisk together softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or lemon juice for tanginess.
Assembling the Cookies
Spread or pipe a generous layer of lemon cream onto the flat side of a cookie. Sandwich with another cookie, pressing gently to spread the filling evenly. Repeat until all cookies are paired and filled.
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Storage Tips
Store unfilled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate filled cookies for up to a week, though they’re best enjoyed fresh. For long-term storage, freeze unfilled cookies for up to 3 months and assemble before serving.
Creative Variations
Switch up the citrus by using orange or lime zest and juice instead of lemon. For a richer filling, substitute cream cheese with mascarpone. Add a drizzle of white chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Tips for Success
Use room-temperature butter and cream cheese for a smooth dough and filling. Chill the dough if it’s too soft to pipe. Watch the cookies closely while baking to prevent overbrowning and maintain their delicate texture.
A Zesty Crowd-Pleaser
Lemon Cookies with Lemon Cream are a delightful blend of tart and sweet, making them a standout at any gathering. Whether shared at a celebration or savored with a cup of tea, these cookies bring sunshine to every bite.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do I need to process the sugar with lemon zest?
Processing sugar with zest releases the oils from the zest, infusing the sugar with lemon flavor and ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
- → Why should the dough be soft for piping?
Soft dough pipes smoothly and creates uniform cookies. If the dough is too firm, it won't pipe easily and may result in misshapen cookies.
- → Can I make these cookies ahead?
Yes, you can make the cookies ahead and store them unfilled. Fill them close to serving time for the best texture.
- → What if I don't have a piping bag?
While piping creates the most elegant presentation, you can also roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly before baking.
- → How should I store these cookies?
Store filled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.