Lemon Thumbprint Cookies
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Delicate, buttery cookies with a refreshing lemon curd center and a dusting of powdered sugar, perfect for lemon lovers.
Yield
Makes 24 cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup natural, pre-made lemon curd (check the ingredients for all-natural options)
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to gently press an indentation into the center of each ball.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and use a spoon to gently press down the indentations again if they puffed up during baking. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 3: Fill and Garnish
- Spoon or pipe a small amount of natural lemon curd into each cookie's indentation.
- Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
Kitchen Tips
- Pre-Made Lemon Curd: Look for brands that use natural ingredients and no artificial flavors or colors.
- Zesting Tip: Use a microplane to finely zest the lemon for maximum flavor in the cookie dough.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):
Calories, 110 | Protein, 1g | Carbohydrates, 11g | Fiber, 0g | Net Carbohydrates, 11g | Fat, 7g | Saturated Fat, 4g | Cholesterol, 25mg | Sodium, 20mg | Sugars, 6g | Glycemic Index, Medium
"Bright and buttery Lemon Thumbprint Cookies with natural lemon curd and powdered sugar dusting—a refreshing treat for citrus lovers!"