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If you’re craving a bright, zesty treat that perfectly balances tangy and sweet, this Stuffed Lemon Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These delightful cookies bring together a tender, buttery dough infused with real lemon zest and juice, hugging a luscious cream cheese and lemon filling that melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a sunny afternoon tea or a special celebration, these cookies will surely brighten the room and your day. Trust me, once you try this Stuffed Lemon Cookies Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect texture and flavor of this Stuffed Lemon Cookies Recipe. Each component is simple but crucial: from the soft butter creating the base of the dough, to the fresh lemon juice and zest that give the cookies their signature bright tang, and the smooth cream cheese filling adding that irresistible creamy kick.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter blends easily to create a tender dough with a rich flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with that light, crisp cookie edge.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture for a perfect crumb.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Infuses fresh, aromatic citrus notes throughout the cookie dough.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that balances the sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The cookie’s structure, providing that classic chewy yet tender bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness elegantly.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the filling, bringing creamy tangy richness.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese filling.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds extra citrus punch inside the filling.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens and lightens the cream cheese filling.
- Powdered sugar, for dusting: The final elegant touch giving a delicate sweetness and pretty finish.
How to Make Stuffed Lemon Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which creates a smooth dough base. Then beat in the egg, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice, mixing until fully combined and fragrant. In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing gently until just incorporated. Avoid over-mixing to keep the dough tender and soft.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Using a clean bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whip the mixture until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps for that velvety filling texture. This mixture is where the magic happens, delivering a luscious contrast inside the zesty cookie shell.
Step 3: Form and Fill the Cookies
Divide the dough into small balls about one inch in diameter. Flatten each ball into a small disk in your palm, then place a teaspoon of the cream cheese filling in the center. Carefully fold the dough around the filling, sealing it completely and rolling it gently back into a ball shape. Placing the filling inside ensures every cookie bites into a delightful surprise of creamy lemon goodness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the filled dough balls evenly spaced on the sheet to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for approximately 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. This baking time is key for getting that perfect chewy-soft texture without drying out the cookies.
Step 5: Finish with a Dusting
Once cooled slightly, dust the warm cookies with a generous sprinkle of powdered sugar. This adds a beautiful snowy finish and a touch of extra sweetness to complement the bright lemon flavors. Now your stuffed lemon cookies are ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Stuffed Lemon Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming presentation, consider garnishing with thin lemon slices or edible lemon blossoms alongside the cookies. A light drizzle of lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice can also add sparkle and extra zing. These little touches can elevate your homemade cookies into something truly special and Instagram-worthy.
Side Dishes
Stuffed Lemon Cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a refreshing glass of iced green tea. If you want a more indulgent touch, serve them alongside vanilla bean ice cream or lemon-flavored sorbet. The cool creaminess complements the tangy cookies perfectly, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the cookies in a pretty tiered cake stand for parties or gifting them in a decorative box wrapped with twine and a sprig of fresh mint. You can also sandwich two cookies together with additional lemon cream cheese filling for an extra special treat. Presentation makes a world of difference and turns this Stuffed Lemon Cookies Recipe into an irresistible centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover lemon cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to 3 days, perfect for savoring over a few afternoons without losing that fresh-baked quality.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed cookies on a lined baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, bake the cookies fully, cool them, then freeze in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To revive the soft texture, warm the cookies briefly in a microwave (about 10-15 seconds) or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C for 5 minutes). Reheating brings back that fresh-baked warmth and makes the cream cheese filling delightfully melty again.
FAQs
Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?
Yes, you can substitute fresh lemon juice with lemon extract, but fresh juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor that really makes this Stuffed Lemon Cookies Recipe shine. If using extract, start with a small amount to avoid overpowering the dough.
Is cream cheese filling necessary?
The cream cheese filling is what sets these lemon cookies apart and adds a wonderful creamy tang. You could omit it, but the cookie won’t have the same delightful surprise or richness inside.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?
Make sure to seal the dough completely around the cream cheese filling, pinching edges together well and gently rolling into a smooth ball. Chilling the dough slightly before baking can also help the cookies hold their shape better.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. Texture may vary slightly but the flavors should be just as delicious.
How long do these cookies last?
Enjoy these stuffed lemon cookies within 3 days if stored at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze as described above to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
I’m so excited for you to try this Stuffed Lemon Cookies Recipe because it truly celebrates the bright, sunny flavor of lemon in the most indulgent way possible. Whether you bake them for yourself or share with friends and family, these cookies will bring so much joy. They’re simple enough for a weekday treat but special enough to impress guests. So roll up your sleeves, get your lemon zest ready, and enjoy the lemony, creamy magic that these cookies bring to your kitchen!
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