Lemon Thumbprint Cookies

Zesty, melt-in-your-mouth perfection! 🍋🍪 These lemon thumbprint cookies are pure sunshine. ☀️😋

1. Introduction:

Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat, combining the buttery goodness of shortbread with a tangy lemon curd filling. These cookies are perfect for adding a touch of sunshine to any occasion.

2. Ingredients List:

• 3 ounces Butter melted
• 4 Egg yolks
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup lemon curd (homemade or purchased)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• zest of 1 lemon

3. Step by Step:

First, prepare the shortbread dough and chill it. Then, roll the dough into small balls, make a thumbprint in the center, and fill it with lemon curd. Bake until the cookies are golden around the edges.

Step 1: Prepare the dough

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt. Gradually add the flour on low speed until a dough forms; finish combining by hand into a large ball.

Step 2: Shape the cookies

Take tablespoons of the dough and roll them into smooth, even balls. Aim for a consistent size to ensure even baking. Place the formed dough balls onto a clean surface for the next step.

Step 3: Prepare for baking

Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2.5 cm (1 inch) apart. Using your finger or the back of a small spoon, make a deep indentation in the center of each ball. These indentations will hold the curd filling later.

Step 4: Bake the cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven until they are firm and lightly golden on the bottom, approximately 18 to 20 minutes. Monitor them closely to prevent burning. The bottoms should be a light golden color when they are ready.

Step 5: Add the curd filling

Remove the baked cookies from the oven and immediately fill the indentations with your prepared curd. Work quickly while the cookies are still warm, allowing the curd to settle nicely. Be careful not to overfill.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Before serving, sprinkle the cookies generously with confectioners' sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Serve the cookies warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

4. Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or a glass of lemonade.

5. Nutrition

Serving size: 42 servings, Calories: 74kcal, Protein: 1g, Fat: 3g, Carbohydrates: 11g, Sugar: 6g, Cholesterol: 23mg, Sodium: 58mg

6. Final Touch:

Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful combination of sweet and tart that will brighten up any dessert table. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, these cookies are a must-try!