Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the best of both worlds—cookies and the classic lemon meringue pie—then you’ve found it! This Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe is not only a favorite in my home, but it also brings back lovely memories of family gatherings and sunny afternoons. These little cookies are light, airy, and bursting with that tangy lemon flavor we all adore. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or as a delightful addition to your next brunch!

Imagine serving these at your next gathering or just enjoying them with a cup of tea on a quiet afternoon. Each bite will remind you of the cheerful essence of spring, making them a hit at any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, so you can whip up these delightful cookies without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cookies, and the zesty lemon flavor makes these a fun twist on traditional treats.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a festive gathering, these cookies fit right in!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, perfect for creating your delicious Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies. Gather them up, and let’s get started!

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling

• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest

For the Meringue Topping

• 2 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Color: Consider mixing in colorful sprinkles on top of the meringue for a festive touch!
• Infuse with Flavor: Swap out lemon juice for lime juice for a tropical twist.
• Experiment with Zest: Try adding orange zest along with lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Make Them Mini: Use a smaller cookie cutter to create bite-sized versions that are perfect for parties.

How to Make Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Next, cut in the chilled butter using either a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step creates that lovely flaky texture we want in our cookies!

Step 2: Chill Out

Press the dough together to form a ball. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough so it holds its shape while baking.

Step 3: Shape & Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter. Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet; this prevents them from breaking apart.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, granulated sugar, egg yolk, cornstarch, and lemon zest. Cook while stirring constantly until thickened and bubbling. It’s crucial to keep stirring so nothing sticks to the bottom! Once done, remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 5: Whip Up That Meringue

In another large bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form. This step is where that beautiful meringue magic begins!

Step 6: Sweeten It Up

Gradually add granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time while beating until stiff peaks form. This creates that wonderful fluffy texture we need for our topping.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cookies

Spoon a small amount of lemon filling onto each cooled cookie. Top with a dollop of meringue—it’s okay if it’s not perfect; rustic is charming!

Step 8: Broil to Perfection

Broil cookies for 1-2 minutes or until meringue is lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfect to burnt quickly! Let cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies that will surely bring smiles to everyone who tries them!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Creating the perfect Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll be able to impress your friends and family with every batch!

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps it firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes without sticking.

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Using freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled not only enhances flavor but also ensures that you’re getting the brightest, most vibrant taste in your cookies.

• Beat Egg Whites Correctly: Make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry when beating egg whites. Any grease can prevent them from whipping up to their full volume, which is crucial for achieving those fluffy meringue peaks.

• Watch the Broiler: When broiling the cookies to brown the meringue, keep a close eye on them. The process happens quickly, and you want that perfect golden color without burning.

• Store Carefully: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a couple of days. Just be aware that the meringue may lose some of its texture over time.

How to Serve Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are not only delicious but can also be presented in a variety of fun and creative ways! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a casual snack, here are some serving ideas.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and complements the tartness of the lemon.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: Adding a sprig of mint on top not only looks beautiful but also brings a refreshing aroma that pairs wonderfully with lemon.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ sweetness.
• Herbed Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, offers soothing flavors that balance out the tangy lemon.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fresh fruit makes for a light, creamy side dish that complements the bright flavors of lemon.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses such as brie or goat cheese pairs well with the sweetness of these cookies while providing a savory contrast.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make these delightful cookies ahead of time and have them ready to impress your friends and family when the occasion arises.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for a longer shelf life, up to 1 week.
• Keep the meringue topping separate to maintain its texture; add it just before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze for about 1 hour until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• These cookies can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• If you’d like to enjoy warm cookies, simply reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving as it may make the meringue soggy; opt for the oven method instead.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use a different type of citrus in this Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a unique twist. Just keep the zest consistent with your chosen citrus fruit.

How can I achieve perfect meringue for my Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe?

To get that perfect meringue, ensure your mixing bowl is clean and dry. Beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form is key. Gradually adding sugar while mixing will help create that lovely glossy finish.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! For a vegan version of this recipe, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as an egg white substitute and replace butter with vegan margarine.

How long does it take to prepare and bake these cookies?

This Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe takes approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up these delightful Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies! They are not only a fun twist on a classic dessert but also bring a burst of sunshine into your home. Enjoy making them as much as I do, and share these sweet treats with those you love. Happy baking!