Name: Easy Lemon Curd Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 270 grams all-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups); 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1 teaspoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon); 133 grams granulated sugar + more for rolling (2/3 cup); 226 grams unsalted butter, softened (1 cup); 2 egg yolks, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract); 120 milliliters Meyer lemon curd (or store-bought) (1/3 cup)

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 3 reviews

If you’ve been searching for an irresistibly bright and buttery treat that’s both simple to make and impossible to resist, then this Easy Lemon Curd Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie dough with a sweet and tangy lemon curd center that bursts with fresh citrus flavor in every bite. These lemon curd cookies are an absolute showstopper at any gathering, offering a perfect balance of zesty brightness and sweet richness that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows round cookies arranged closely together on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has two layers: the outer layer is pale beige with a slightly rough texture, forming a thick ring, and the inner layer is bright yellow-orange, smooth and glossy, filling the center circle like a jam or jelly. Small grains of sugar are scattered on and around the cookies, adding a sparkling effect. The cookies look soft and freshly baked. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Easy Lemon Curd Cookies Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect harmony of flavor and texture. From the all-purpose flour that forms the sturdy yet tender base to the lemon zest that brings out a fresh zing, each component plays a vital role in making these cookies stand out.

270 grams all-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The foundation for structure and light crumb in your cookies.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: Adds tenderness and helps the cookies stay soft.
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness and lemon flavor.
1 teaspoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon): Infuses fresh citrus oils for bright, natural lemon aroma.
133 grams granulated sugar (2/3 cup plus more for rolling): Sweetens the dough and creates a subtle crunch on the outside.
226 grams unsalted butter, softened (1 cup): Provides richness and tender flakiness.
2 egg yolks, room temperature: Adds moisture and a velvety texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract: Deepens flavor with warm, sweet notes.
120 milliliters Meyer lemon curd (1/3 cup): The show-stopping luscious lemon filling inside every cookie.

How to Make Easy Lemon Curd Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Dry Ingredients

Begin by whisking together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and Kosher salt in a small bowl. This dry blend ensures your cookies have a tender crumb with just the right amount of structure. Separately, pour some granulated sugar into a shallow bowl for rolling your dough balls later.

Step 2: Infuse the Sugar with Lemon Zest

Pour the sugar and fresh lemon zest into a large mixing bowl. Use your clean hands to rub them together for about 1 to 2 minutes until the sugar is fragrant and the lemon oils have fully released. This step awakens the citrus aroma and flavors every part of your cookie base.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Lemon Mixture

Add the softened butter to the lemon-sugar mixture. Using either a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until the mixture becomes pale, fluffy, and luxuriously creamy—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, mix in the room temperature egg yolks and vanilla bean paste, which enrich the dough with depth and silkiness.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle your dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients and gently mix. It’s normal for the dough to look crumbly at this stage. Once large clumps form, switch to a rubber spatula and fold the dough just until smooth and combined to keep the cookies tender and melt-in-your-mouth.

Step 5: Shape and Sugar-Coat the Dough

Using a 1 Tablespoon cookie scoop (#60 size) helps ensure evenly sized treats. Scoop and roll each dough ball until smooth, then roll the dough in the sugar bowl you prepared earlier. This extra sugar layer creates a delightful sparkle and slight crunch once baked.

Step 6: Make an Indent for Lemon Curd

Place the sugared dough balls around 2 inches apart on parchment-lined sheet pans (about 12 per pan). Use a teaspoon’s bottom to press a shallow indentation into the center of each cookie—this little nest will cradle the luscious lemon curd you’ll add later.

Step 7: Chill the Dough for Perfect Texture

Freeze the prepared cookie dough for 30 minutes or refrigerate for one hour. This chilling step firms up the dough for neat baking and prevents spreading in the oven. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) so it’s ready when you are!

Step 8: Fill with Lemon Curd and Bake

Once chilled, pipe or spoon about half a teaspoon of Meyer lemon curd into each cookie’s center. Don’t worry if the curd bubbles during baking—that’s a good sign! Bake for 11 to 12 minutes until the cookie bottoms turn a delicate golden brown and the curd filling sets.

Step 9: Cool and Store

After baking, allow cookies to cool on the sheet pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents breakage while still warm. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate to keep the delicate lemon curd fresh for up to 5 days.

How to Serve Easy Lemon Curd Cookies Recipe

Easy Lemon Curd Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For that irresistible finishing touch, consider dusting the cookies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or decorating the edges with finely chopped toasted almonds for an added nutty crunch and visual appeal. Fresh mint leaves also pair beautifully, enhancing the fresh citrus vibes.

Side Dishes

These lemon curd cookies are delightful on their own but also pair wonderfully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a fresh berry salad to deepen that sunny, summery flavor experience. For a more indulgent option, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cookies on a pastel-colored platter for festive occasions or stack them in a pretty tiered dessert stand to highlight their delicate charm at gatherings. You can even package them in a small box tied with a lemon-yellow ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift that everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps preserve the creamy lemon curd center and keeps the cookie texture perfect for up to five days.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies after baking and cooling completely. Wrap them individually in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you want a treat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight for a fresh, delightful snack.

Reheating

If you prefer warm cookies, quickly reheat them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 5 minutes. This slightly softens the cookie and gently warms the lemon curd, bringing out that fresh, bright flavor without melting the filling too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular lemon curd instead of Meyer lemon curd?

Absolutely! While Meyer lemon curd offers a sweeter, less tart profile, regular lemon curd works perfectly well. It will give your cookies a classic tangy lemon punch that’s just as delicious.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough is highly recommended as it helps the cookies maintain their shape and texture. Without chilling, the cookies may spread too much and lose their distinctive indent for the lemon curd.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. However, texture might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the dough consistency and adjust as needed.

How do I store these cookies if I want to bring them to a party?

Transport the cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep them refrigerated if possible to maintain the fresh lemon curd filling and avoid melting.

Can I use homemade lemon curd for this recipe?

Yes! Homemade lemon curd adds a wonderful personal touch and fresh flavor. Just ensure your curd is fully cooled before filling the cookies to maintain the right consistency during baking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Easy Lemon Curd Cookies Recipe that makes it a timeless favorite. Whether you’re baking them for a casual afternoon treat or a festive celebration, their bright citrus flavor and tender crumb will bring smiles all around. So go ahead—grab those lemons, get your hands in the dough, and delight in one of the most charming, delicious cookies you’ll ever have the joy of sharing!