Lemon Bar Cookie Cups are a delightful twist on classic lemon bars, combining the bright, tangy flavor of lemon curd with a buttery cookie crust. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, afternoon tea, or simply as a sweet indulgence. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create these delicious Lemon Bar Cookie Cups step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2¾ cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1¼ cups sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
For the Lemon Curd Filling:
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 eggs, divided
- ⅔ cup lemon juice
For the Topping:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cookie Cups
- Form Dough Balls: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them in the prepared mini muffin tin.
- Create Indents: Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press an indent into the center of each dough ball to form a cup shape.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookie cups to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Curd Filling
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, beat the softened butter and sugar until well combined.
- Add Eggs and Lemon Juice: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the lemon juice.
- Cook the Curd: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 7-10 minutes). Do not let it boil.
- Cool: Remove from heat and let the lemon curd cool completely before filling the cookie cups.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookie Cups
- Fill Cookie Cups: Spoon the cooled lemon curd into each cookie cup, filling them to the top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with lemon zest and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Lemon Bar Cookie Cups at room temperature. Enjoy these tangy, sweet bites of lemony goodness!
Cooking Notes
- Cookie Dough: Ensure the butter is fully softened for the cookie dough to mix easily and achieve the right texture.
- Lemon Curd: Stir the lemon curd constantly while cooking to prevent it from curdling and ensure a smooth, thick consistency.
- Garnish: For a more decorative look, add a small piece of lemon zest or a fresh berry on top of each cookie cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these cookie cups ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cookie cups and lemon curd filling in advance. Store the baked cookie cups in an airtight container and the lemon curd in the refrigerator. Assemble them just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Lemon Bar Cookie Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I freeze these cookie cups? A: Yes, you can freeze the baked cookie cups without the filling. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw and fill with lemon curd before serving.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of these Lemon Bar Cookie Cups, follow these modifications:
- Cookie Dough: Replace the flour with almond flour and use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol.
- Lemon Curd: Use a sugar substitute in place of regular sugar.
Lemon Bar Cookie Cups are a delightful and refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery cookie crust and tangy lemon filling, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bite-sized version of a classic dessert!
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