Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe - Fruity Desserts
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the zesty flavor of lemon meringue pie, now in a delightful cookie form! These cookies are a perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet meringue, making them a must-try dessert.
This Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe combines the classic flavors of a lemon meringue pie into a bite-sized cookie form. Perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright and tangy lemon flavor that refreshes the palate
- Light and airy texture with a delightful meringue topping
- Perfectly portable for picnics or dessert trays
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Lemon meringue pie is a classic dessert that has captivated taste buds for generations. In this cookie adaptation, the bright, zesty flavor of lemon shines through, creating an irresistible treat. The cookies offer a delightful contrast with their soft, chewy texture, while the meringue topping adds a light, airy sweetness. This combination not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also leaves you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
The use of fresh lemon juice and zest is crucial in achieving that authentic lemon flavor. It provides a burst of citrus that cuts through the sweetness, making each bite a harmonious blend of tart and sweet. Whether you're a fan of lemon desserts or just looking for something new to try, these cookies are sure to impress.
A Fun Baking Project
Baking these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies is not only delicious but also a fun activity to share with family and friends. The process of creaming the butter and sugar, mixing in the eggs, and folding in the dry ingredients allows for creativity in the kitchen. Kids and adults alike will enjoy getting hands-on and watching the transformation of simple ingredients into delightful cookies.
Making meringue might seem daunting at first, but it's easier than you think. With a little patience and the right technique, you'll whip up a fluffy topping that elevates your cookies to the next level. Plus, these cookies are perfect for gatherings, adding a touch of elegance to any dessert table.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, making them an excellent treat for meal prep or snacking throughout the week. If you're planning to serve them at an event, consider arranging them on a beautiful platter for an eye-catching presentation.
For an extra touch, drizzle some lemon glaze over the cooled cookies or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily customize the serving based on your preferences or the occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
For the Meringue Topping
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Make the Meringue Topping
While the cookies are baking, prepare the meringue. In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form.
Finish the Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately top each one with a dollop of meringue. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until the meringue is lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
Enjoy your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies fresh or store them in an airtight container for later!
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve the right proportions, especially for flour. Also, remember to allow your butter to soften at room temperature, as this will create a better texture when creamed with sugar.
When baking, keep an eye on the cookies as oven temperatures can vary. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to promote even cooking.
Enhancing Your Cookie Experience
If you want to amplify the lemon flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon extract in addition to the fresh juice and zest. This will deepen the citrus notes without overpowering the cookie's balance.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, try incorporating finely chopped nuts or coconut into the cookie dough. This adds texture and an additional layer of flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits! Lime or orange can be substituted for lemon to create a unique twist on this recipe. Each variation brings its own flavor profile, allowing you to discover new favorites.
Additionally, you can create a sandwich cookie by adding a layer of lemon curd between two cookies for an extra burst of flavor. This adds a gourmet touch that's sure to impress your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cookies and prepare the meringue ahead of time. Assemble and bake the meringue topping just before serving.
→ How should I store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
→ What can I do if my meringue isn't forming stiff peaks?
Ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease. Adding a pinch of salt can also help stabilize the egg whites.
Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe - Fruity Desserts
Delight in the zesty flavor of lemon meringue pie, now in a delightful cookie form! These cookies are a perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet meringue, making them a must-try dessert.
Created by: Lila Morgan
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
For the Meringue Topping
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
While the cookies are baking, prepare the meringue. In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form.
Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately top each one with a dollop of meringue. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until the meringue is lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g