Imagine the delightful fusion of buttery, crisp cookies and tangy lemon curd, all packed in a bite-sized delight that promises to transport you straight to a sunny, serene orchard with each mouthful. That’s exactly what you get with these Lemon Bar Cookie Cups, a dessert that combines the classic charm of lemon bars and the convenience of cookies into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for the perfect potluck addition, or simply in the mood for a sweet, citrusy indulgence at home, these cookie cups are sure to brighten your day. Here’s how to bring this ray of sunshine into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cookies:
- 2¾ cups of flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1¼ cups sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Curd Filling:
- 6 Tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 eggs, divided (you’ll use 2 whole eggs and 2 yolks)
- ⅔ cup lemon juice
For the Topping:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Guide to Sunshine
Preparing the Cookie Cups:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a mini muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your cookie cups will release easily.
- Mix your dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, and baking powder in a small bowl and set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until fluffy. Then beat in the egg and vanilla extract for a smooth blend.
- Combine the dry and wet ingredients, gradually adding the dry mix to the creamy mixture, stirring until you have a consistent dough.
- Shape the dough into 1″ balls and place each into the muffin tin. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they’re golden and inviting.
- Create the cups by pressing down the center of each cookie as soon as they come out of the oven. Let them cool in the pan.
Making the Lemon Curd Filling:
- Cream together the butter and sugar for the filling until smooth.
- Whisk in the eggs—both whole and yolks—and then the lemon juice, blending well.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens (about 5 minutes). Let it cool slightly before proceeding.
Assembling the Cookie Cups:
- Fill each cookie cup with the lemon curd, adding just enough to sit level with the top of the cups.
- Chill the cookie cups to set the lemon curd, making them easier to handle and adding a refreshing coolness.
- Add the final touches by topping each cup with lemon zest and a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful and tasty finish.
Serving and Enjoyment
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Calories: 235 kcal per serving
- Servings: 24 cookie cups
Once your Lemon Bar Cookie Cups are chilled and set, gently remove them from the tin, arrange them on a serving platter, and watch them disappear as quickly as they came. Perfect for any occasion, or when you simply need a burst of brightness in your day, these cookie cups are a testament to the joy of baking and the timeless appeal of lemon-flavored treats. Enjoy crafting this delightful dessert and bask in the glow of satisfied smiles all around you.
Note
The recipe provided is designed for basic purposes, meant to serve a standard portion. However, the accompanying picture features additional layers, intended for a larger gathering, but rest assured, the core recipe shared is suitable for everyday use.