These Lemon Sandwich Cookies with Lemon Cream Filling are a delightful treat that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of cream cheese. Perfect for spring and summer, these cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors. The crisp lemon cookies, infused with the zest of fresh lemons and a hint of vanilla, pair beautifully with the tangy-sweet lemon cream filling. This classic dessert is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or special occasion.

Ingredients:

• Thin Lemon Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 small lemons, zested
  • 1 egg, room temperature
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice, separated
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Lemon Cream Filling:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Thin Lemon Cookies:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper.
   • In a medium bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, and lemon zest until smooth. Add the egg and mix well.
   • Squeeze both lemons to get 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice and add it to the mixture along with the vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
   • Slowly add the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt) and beat until just combined. Chill the dough for 10 minutes.
   • Using a small or medium ice cream scooper, scoop the cookie dough into balls and place them on the prepared cookie sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
   • Bake for 5 minutes, then flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or measuring cup. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until done. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

2. Prepare the Lemon Cream Filling:

   • Beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the confectioners’ sugar, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
   • Slowly add the heavy whipping cream and beat until stiff peaks form.

3. Assemble the Cookies:

• Place the cooled cookies on a flat surface. Pipe a small amount of lemon cream filling onto the bottom of half of the cookies.
• Top each filled cookie with another cookie to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies.

4. Store the Cookies:
   • Store the cookies in an airtight container in a chilled location. The cookies can also be frozen for later use.

Top Tips:

1. Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemons are essential for the best flavor. Use both lemon zest and juice for maximum flavor impact.
2. Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps the cookies retain their shape and bake evenly.
3. Piping Bag: Using a piping bag makes it easier to fill the cookies evenly, but you can also use a plastic bag with a corner snipped off.
4. Freeze for Later: These cookies freeze well, making them a great option for future gatherings or snacks.
5. Adjust Lemon Juice: If you prefer a stronger or weaker lemon flavor, adjust the amount of lemon juice accordingly.
6. Decorate with Drizzle: For an extra touch, drizzle the cookies with a simple powdered sugar glaze made by mixing powdered sugar and milk.

Variations:

1. Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Add some poppy seeds to the cookie dough for a delightful texture and extra flavor.
2. Citrus Zest Cookies: Replace some of the lemon zest with other citrus zests like orange or lime for a unique twist.
3. Shortbread Cookies: Use a shortbread cookie recipe instead of the thin lemon cookies for a crisper texture.
4. Lemon-Ginger Filling: Add some grated ginger to the lemon cream filling for a spicy kick.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Cookies: Dip the tops of the cookies in melted chocolate for a sweet and tangy combination.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes: These cookies are relatively low in fat and high in carbohydrates, making them a sweet treat that can be enjoyed in moderation. The cream cheese in the filling adds a significant amount of protein, making these cookies more satisfying. However, they are best enjoyed as an occasional dessert due to their high sugar content.