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:
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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
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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:
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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.
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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.
-
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.
- 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:
- Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemons are essential for the best flavor. Use both lemon zest and juice for maximum flavor impact.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps the cookies retain their shape and bake evenly.
- 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.
- Freeze for Later: These cookies freeze well, making them a great option for future gatherings or snacks.
- Adjust Lemon Juice: If you prefer a stronger or weaker lemon flavor, adjust the amount of lemon juice accordingly.
- Decorate with Drizzle: For an extra touch, drizzle the cookies with a simple powdered sugar glaze made by mixing powdered sugar and milk.
Variations:
- Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Add some poppy seeds to the cookie dough for a delightful texture and extra flavor.
- Citrus Zest Cookies: Replace some of the lemon zest with other citrus zests like orange or lime for a unique twist.
- Shortbread Cookies: Use a shortbread cookie recipe instead of the thin lemon cookies for a crisper texture.
- Lemon-Ginger Filling: Add some grated ginger to the lemon cream filling for a spicy kick.
- Chocolate-Dipped Cookies: Dip the tops of the cookies in melted chocolate for a sweet and tangy combination.
Nutritional Guide:
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Cookie Sandwich) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 4g |
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.
