Description
Zesty lemon thumbprint cookies merge buttery shortbread with tangy citrus filling. Crisp edges and delicate centers make these cookies a delightful treat you’ll savor with each sweet, refreshing bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
Filling:
- 1/4 cup lemon curd
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Whip softened butter and sugar until pale and airy, creating a smooth, creamy base for the cookies.
- Incorporate egg yolk, infusing the mixture with rich texture and binding properties, then blend in vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
- Grate fresh lemon zest into the mixture, releasing fragrant citrus oils, and sprinkle salt to enhance overall taste profile.
- Gradually fold flour into the wet ingredients, mixing until a cohesive, slightly crumbly dough forms.
- Gently shape dough into uniform spheres, approximately one inch in diameter, placing them evenly on a prepared baking sheet.
- Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, create gentle wells in the center of each cookie, ensuring even depth.
- Slide the baking sheet into a preheated 350°F oven, allowing cookies to transform for 10-12 minutes until edges acquire a delicate golden hue.
- Remove cookies from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes to stabilize their structure.
- Carefully spoon vibrant lemon curd into the center indentations, filling each cookie with tangy, silky brightness.
Notes
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for smooth, even mixing and perfect cookie texture.
- Use fresh lemon zest for maximum citrusy flavor and aromatic punch.
- Create uniform indentations by using the back of a small measuring spoon instead of your thumb for consistent cookie shape.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before adding lemon curd to prevent soggy bottoms and maintain crisp edges.
- Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for celiac-friendly treats.
- Store cookies in an airtight container between parchment layers to prevent sticking and maintain crispness.
- Prepare dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days for convenient baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 99 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg