Lemon Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of sweet and tangy in a bite-sized treat, look no further than Lemon Thumbprint Cookies. These soft, buttery cookies with a vibrant burst of lemon curd in the center are sure to impress your family and guests. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is a must-try! Read on for all the tips and tricks to make these delightful Lemon Thumbprint Cookies in your own kitchen.

this Recipe

What Are Lemon Thumbprint Cookies?

Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are a variation of the classic thumbprint cookie. Traditionally, thumbprint cookies feature a soft, buttery dough with a sweet fruit or jam filling in the center. In this version, the filling is made with a luscious lemon curd, which gives the cookies their signature tangy flavor. The dough is rich and tender, while the lemon curd adds a pop of citrus that brightens up every bite. These cookies are perfect for lemon lovers or anyone who enjoys the combination of sweet and tart flavors.

Ingredients List for Lemon Thumbprint Cookies

Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for both the cookie dough and the lemon curd filling:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie, providing structure and chewiness.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps give the cookies a slight lift and a tender texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cookie dough.
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps it achieve a golden color.
• 1 large egg yolk: Contributes to the rich texture and binds the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Provides a fresh, citrusy aroma that complements the lemon curd.

For the Lemon Curd Filling:

• ½ cup fresh lemon juice: The star of the filling, giving the curd its tangy, citrus flavor.
• Zest of 2 lemons: Intensifies the lemony taste and aroma.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the lemon juice.
• 2 large eggs: Create a smooth and creamy texture for the curd.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky finish to the lemon curd.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances the lemon flavor and rounds out the sweetness.

Substitutions and Variations

While this Lemon Thumbprint Cookies recipe is delicious as written, there are a few substitutions and variations you can try if you want to customize it:

Substitutions:

• Butter substitutes: If you prefer to use a non-dairy butter alternative, you can swap the unsalted butter with margarine or plant-based butter. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.
• Sugar alternatives: To reduce the sugar content, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. However, this may slightly alter the texture of the cookies.
• Gluten-free flour: To make the cookies gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum for the best results.

Variations:

• Jam-filled thumbprint cookies: If you’re not in the mood for lemon, you can replace the lemon curd with your favorite jam or fruit preserve, such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot.
• Almond-flavored cookies: Add ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the dough instead of vanilla for a nutty twist that pairs well with the lemon curd.
• Iced thumbprint cookies: Once the cookies are baked and filled, drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and a little milk over the top for an extra sweet finish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start baking! Follow these simple instructions to make the perfect batch of Lemon Thumbprint Cookies.

1. Preheat your oven.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Prepare the cookie dough.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.

3. Shape the cookies.

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, form the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press your thumb into the center of each dough ball to create an indentation. Be careful not to press all the way through the dough.

4. Chill the cookies.

For best results, place the baking sheets with the shaped cookies in the refrigerator to chill for 20-30 minutes. This will help the cookies maintain their shape during baking and prevent them from spreading too much.

5. Bake the cookies.

Once the cookies are chilled, bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove the cookies from the oven and use the back of a spoon to gently press down any indentations that may have puffed up during baking. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets.

6. Make the lemon curd.

While the cookies are baking and cooling, prepare the lemon curd. In a small saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Once the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, remove it from the heat and stir in the butter and a pinch of salt. Let the curd cool to room temperature before filling the cookies.

7. Fill the cookies.

Once the cookies have cooled, spoon a small amount of lemon curd into each indentation. You can use a piping bag or a small spoon for this step. If desired, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few tips to ensure your Lemon Thumbprint Cookies come out perfectly every time:

• Don’t skip chilling the dough: If you don’t chill the cookie dough before baking, the cookies may spread too much in the oven, losing their shape.
• Avoid overbaking: Thumbprint cookies should have a soft, tender texture. Make sure to remove them from the oven when the edges are just starting to turn golden.
• Stir the lemon curd constantly: When making lemon curd, it’s crucial to stir it continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling and forming lumps.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters when it comes to serving Lemon Thumbprint Cookies. Here are some creative ideas for serving and displaying these delightful treats:

How to Serve Lemon Thumbprint Cookies:

• With tea or coffee: Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are the perfect companion for a cup of tea or coffee. Their sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with a hot beverage, making them a great choice for afternoon tea or dessert after a meal.
• As part of a dessert platter: Arrange the cookies on a tray alongside other small treats, such as chocolate truffles, mini brownies, or fruit tarts. This is a great option for parties or gatherings.
• Gift them in a cookie box: These cookies make a beautiful homemade gift. Package them in a decorative tin or box, lined with parchment paper, and tied with a ribbon.

Presentation Ideas for Lemon Thumbprint Cookies:

• Dust with powdered sugar: For a touch of elegance, lightly dust the filled cookies with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a decorative flair and an extra layer of sweetness.
• Add a lemon zest garnish: For an extra pop of color, sprinkle a little fresh lemon zest on top of the lemon curd filling just before serving. This will enhance the lemon flavor and make the cookies even more visually appealing.

Lemon Thumbprint Cookies Recipe Tips

To ensure your Lemon Thumbprint Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these additional tips in mind:

• Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will give the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, which can have a more acidic, artificial taste.
• Make the curd in advance: Lemon curd can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This can save you time when you’re ready to bake the cookies.
• Double the recipe: These cookies are always a hit, so consider doubling the recipe if you’re serving a crowd or want leftovers for later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze Lemon Thumbprint Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze both the unbaked cookie dough and the baked cookies. For unbaked dough, shape the dough into balls, press the thumbprint, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. For baked cookies, freeze them without the lemon curd filling, then add the curd after thawing.

How long do Lemon Thumbprint Cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container, Lemon Thumbprint Cookies will last up to 5 days at room temperature. If refrigerated, they can last up to a week. You can also store the cookies without filling for longer shelf life.

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought lemon curd works just as well as homemade. Just make sure to choose a good-quality brand for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the richness of buttery cookie dough with the bright, tangy flavor of lemon curd. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With these step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations, you’ll be able to create the perfect batch every time. So gather your ingredients and get baking—you won’t be disappointed!

Print