Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour , baking soda , and salt . Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the eggs , one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice .
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Pro Tip: If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before shaping.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar , mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice for a bright, tangy filling.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the cookie dough into balls about 1 tablespoon in size. Flatten each ball slightly with your palm.
Place a small dollop of the lemon filling (about ½ teaspoon) in the center of each flattened dough piece. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together to seal completely. Roll the sealed dough into a ball.
Tip: Ensure the filling is fully enclosed to prevent it from leaking during baking.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheets
Place the shaped cookies about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball slightly to help the cookies spread evenly while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes , or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. Avoid overbaking, as the cookies will firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar or top with crushed lemon candies for added flair.
Customization Ideas
While the classic version of these Stuffed Lemon Cookies is delicious, here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Berry Twist : Replace the lemon filling with a raspberry or strawberry cream cheese mixture for a fruity variation.
- Citrus Medley : Add orange zest or lime juice to the dough or filling for a multi-citrus experience.
- Nutty Crunch : Sprinkle chopped almonds or pistachios on top of the cookies before baking.
- Glaze It Up : Drizzle a simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled cookies.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Stuffed Lemon Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Lemons : Freshly zested and juiced lemons provide the best flavor compared to bottled juice.
- Don’t Overfill : Use just enough filling to avoid leaks during baking.
- Chill if Necessary : If the dough becomes too sticky, chill it briefly in the refrigerator for easier handling.
- Cool Completely Before Handling : Letting the cookies cool fully ensures they hold their shape and don’t crumble.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
Conclusion
These Stuffed Lemon Cookies bring together the best of citrusy freshness and buttery goodness in one delightful package. Their vibrant flavor and creamy filling make them perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared at a party.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s bake something truly special. Once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why these cookies deserve a permanent spot in your recipe collection!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore our other lemon-inspired desserts. Happy baking, and may your kitchen adventures always end in sweet success! 🍋✨
