Mouthwatering Lemon Bar Cookie Cups – A Bite-Sized Citrus Delight! 🍋💛
If you love the bright, tangy sweetness of lemon bars and the buttery richness of cookies, this recipe is about to become your new favorite! These Lemon Bar Cookie Cups combine the best of both worlds—a soft, chewy sugar cookie base with a lusciously smooth homemade lemon curd filling. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them irresistibly addictive for citrus lovers.
Perfect for spring gatherings, summer picnics, afternoon tea, or holiday dessert platters, these easy-to-make cookie cups will impress everyone with their elegant appearance and bold lemon flavor. Best of all, they’re simple to prepare, requiring only a few staple ingredients.
Let’s dive into this easy yet show-stopping recipe!
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Ingredients for Lemon Bar Cookie Cups
For the Cookie Base
2¾ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cookies, giving them a soft yet sturdy base.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookie cups rise slightly for a light texture.
½ teaspoon baking powder – Adds a bit more lift, ensuring the cookies don’t become too dense.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a rich, buttery flavor and keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
1¼ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough while helping achieve a tender texture.
1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent, giving the cookies structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet depth of flavor to balance the lemon.
For the Luscious Lemon Curd Filling
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened – Ensures a creamy, smooth curd with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the lemon curd while helping it thicken.
2 whole eggs + 2 egg yolks – Creates a silky custard-like texture and gives the curd its signature richness.
⅔ cup fresh lemon juice – The star of the show! Fresh lemon juice provides a bright, tangy citrus flavor that makes these cookie cups unforgettable.
For the Garnish
Zest of 1 lemon – Enhances the lemon flavor and adds a beautiful pop of color.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Lightly dusted on top for an elegant finish.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
2. Bake the Cookie Cups
1. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them in the mini muffin tin.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Immediately after baking, use the back of a spoon or a small measuring cup to press down the center of each cookie, creating a well for the lemon curd.
4. Let the cookie cups cool completely before filling.
3. Make the Homemade Lemon Curd
1. In a saucepan over low heat, whisk together the butter and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the eggs and egg yolks, stirring continuously to prevent scrambling.
3. Slowly pour in the fresh lemon juice, continuing to whisk.
4. Cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens (about 5-7 minutes). The curd should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve for an extra smooth texture. Let it cool before using.
4. Assemble the Cookie Cups
1. Fill each cookie cup with a generous spoonful of lemon curd.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the curd to set.
3. Before serving, sprinkle with lemon zest and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Perfect Balance of Sweet & Tart – The buttery cookie pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy lemon curd.
✔️ Bite-Sized & Portable – Great for parties, lunchboxes, or quick snacks.
✔️ Simple Yet Impressive – Looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make.
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Both the cookies and lemon curd can be prepared in advance.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Bar Cookie Cups
✅ Use Fresh Lemons – Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor. Avoid bottled juice for this recipe.
✅ Chill the Dough if Needed – If your dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for 20 minutes before rolling.
✅ Don’t Overbake – The cookies should be soft in the center. Overbaking will make them too firm.
✅ Stir the Lemon Curd Constantly – This prevents the eggs from curdling and ensures a silky texture.
✅ Let the Curd Cool Before Filling – Warm lemon curd can make the cookie cups soggy.
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Serving Suggestions
✨ With a Cup of Tea or Coffee – A delightful treat for afternoon tea.
✨ Topped with Whipped Cream – Adds an extra creamy touch.
✨ Paired with Fresh Berries – Blueberries or raspberries make a great garnish.
✨ With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream – A perfect contrast to the citrusy filling.
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Final Thoughts – The Ultimate Bite-Sized Dessert!
These Lemon Bar Cookie Cups are everything you love about lemon bars but in a fun, handheld cookie form. The buttery sugar cookie base perfectly complements the zesty, creamy lemon curd, making each bite bright, refreshing, and absolutely irresistible.
Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a holiday dessert tray, or simply to satisfy a citrus craving, this easy yet elegant recipe will quickly become
a favorite. Try them today, and let the burst of lemony goodness brighten your day!
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