Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings joy in every bite, you’ve come to the right place! This Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe captures the zesty goodness of classic lemon meringue pie, but in a delightful cookie form. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family gathering, preparing snacks for a busy weeknight, or just craving something delicious. Trust me; these cookies will brighten your day with their light texture and vibrant flavor!

These cookies are not only fun to make, but they also bring smiles to everyone who tries them. The combination of the tangy lemon filling and fluffy meringue creates an irresistible treat that feels special yet is simple enough for any home cook.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have these delightful cookies ready in no time!
• Family-friendly treat: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the sweet, tangy flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake when you’re ready for a fresh batch.
• Perfect for sharing: These cookies are great for parties or as a thoughtful gift to friends and neighbors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies. You probably already have many of them in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

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

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add a twist of flavor: Mix in other citrus zest like orange or lime to give your cookies a unique taste.
• Try different toppings: Instead of meringue, top your cookies with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions.
• Experiment with fillings: Use store-bought lemon curd if you’re short on time—it still tastes amazing!

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. This step ensures that everything is well combined. Next, cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process is key to getting that tender texture we love in cookies!

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Press the dough together to form a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up so it’s easier to roll out and cut later.

Step 3: Preheat and Roll Out

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter, cut out circles from the dough. This step adds fun shapes that are always appealing!

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

Place your cookie circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet—this prevents them from breaking apart when handling.

Step 5: 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 boiling. This filling is where all that tangy goodness comes from!

Step 6: Beat the Egg Whites

In another bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form. This step is crucial as it gives our meringue its lovely fluffiness.

Step 7: Sweeten Your Meringue

Slowly add granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Stiff peaks mean your meringue will hold its shape beautifully when you top your cookies.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cookies

Spoon a small amount of cooled lemon filling onto each cookie base. Top each one with a dollop of fluffy meringue—don’t be shy here; more meringue means more deliciousness!

Step 9: Broil for Perfection

Place your assembled cookies under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes until the meringue becomes lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfect to burnt quickly!

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Let your beautiful Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies cool completely before serving. They’re perfect as an afternoon snack or dessert after dinner!

Now that you’ve made this delightful Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe, it’s time to share them with loved ones—or keep them all to yourself! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Making these delightful cookies is a joy, and with a few simple tips, you can make them even better!

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent it from spreading too much during baking, ensuring your cookies maintain their shape.

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Opt for fresh lemon juice instead of bottled. Fresh juice offers a brighter flavor that truly enhances the tanginess of your cookies.

• Beat the Egg Whites Properly: Ensure your mixing bowl is clean and free from any grease. This helps the egg whites whip up nicely, forming those beautiful stiff peaks needed for perfect meringue.

• Watch the Broiler: When broiling the cookies to brown the meringue, keep a close eye on them! It only takes a minute or two for meringue to go from perfectly golden to burnt.

• Store Cookies Carefully: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed within a couple of days.

How to Serve Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate their presentation for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top adds a bright pop of color and intensifies that citrus aroma.
• Mint Leaves: A small mint leaf beside each cookie brings a refreshing touch and enhances visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi pairs beautifully with the tartness of lemon cookies.
• Vanilla Coconut Sorbet: This creamy sorbet complements the citrus flavor while adding a refreshing element to each bite.
• Herbal Tea: A cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, provides a soothing balance to the tangy flavors of the cookies.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can create an interesting contrast to the sweet-tart cookies, making for an elegant serving option.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with these charming little treats! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time, making them a convenient treat for any occasion. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness.

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 up to a week; just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, sealing tightly. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without the meringue topping; add fresh meringue after thawing.

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen the cookies, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and bake them for about 5 minutes until they are warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe without eggs?

Yes! You can use egg substitutes like aquafaba (chickpea water) in place of egg whites for the meringue. Just be sure to whip it until stiff peaks form.

How long does the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe take to prepare?

The total time is approximately 50 minutes, including prep and baking time. It’s a fun project you’ll love!

What can I use instead of cornstarch in the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe?

Potato starch or arrowroot powder can be great alternatives to cornstarch while still providing that necessary thickening.

Can I add more lemon flavor to my cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon zest or even add a splash more lemon juice if you prefer a stronger citrus flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine! These light and tangy cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy making these delightful treats, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings. Happy baking!