Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the zesty charm of lemon meringue pie with the bite-sized joy of cookies, then you’re in for a real treat! This Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe has been a family favorite for years. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lovely brunches, or any gathering where you want to impress your friends and family without too much fuss. Each cookie is light, airy, and bursting with that tangy lemon flavor we all adore!

What makes this recipe even more special is how it captures the essence of classic lemon meringue pie in a fun and accessible way. You get that crunchy meringue topping and smooth lemon filling all nestled on a buttery cookie base – it’s truly a match made in dessert heaven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies come together quickly.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the bright flavor of lemon and the sweet meringue; it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a special treat at home, these cookies are always welcomed.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake when you’re ready, making it a stress-free dessert option.
• Deliciously Unique: These cookies offer something different from your usual dessert options, making them memorable!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up a batch of these delightful cookies. Gather them up, and let’s get baking!

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 wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Color: Mix in natural food coloring to the meringue for a vibrant twist that makes these cookies pop!
• Fruit Infusions: Try adding another citrus juice like lime or orange for a different flavor profile.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some finely chopped nuts into the cookie base for added texture and flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle some melted dairy-free chocolate over the top for an indulgent touch.

How to Make Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cutting in chilled butter is essential here; it gives your cookies that crumbly texture we love. Use a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures that your dough will be tender after baking!

Step 2: Chill Out

Press the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the butter firm up again so that when you roll out the dough later, it holds its shape perfectly.

Step 3: Roll Out and Cut

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter, cut out circles to form your cookie bases. This is where you can get creative with shapes if you like!

Step 4: Bake Those Cookies

Place your cut-out cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Letting them cool completely on the baking sheet ensures they won’t break apart when you add the filling.

Step 5: Make That Lemon Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, granulated sugar, egg yolk, cornstarch, and lemon zest until thickened. Stirring constantly is key here – this will give you that smooth filling reminiscent of traditional lemon meringue pie.

Step 6: Whip Up Some Meringue

In another bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer until foamy. Add cream of tartar for stability as you continue beating until soft peaks form. Gradually adding granulated sugar while beating will ensure your meringue is glossy with stiff peaks.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cookies

Spoon a small amount of that luscious lemon filling onto each cooled cookie base. Top each one generously with dollops of meringue – don’t be shy here!

Step 8: Broil to Perfection

Finally, broil your cookies for just 1-2 minutes until the meringue turns lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them because they can go from perfect to burnt quickly! Let them cool completely before serving.

And there you have it – delicious Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies ready to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Creating the perfect Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll surely impress your family and friends!

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent it from spreading too much during baking. This ensures your cookies maintain their shape and have a lovely, flaky texture.

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh lemon juice and zest will enhance the vibrant flavor of your cookies. Fresh ingredients pack a punch that bottled versions simply can’t match.

• Perfect Meringue Technique: Be sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form before adding sugar. This technique creates a light and airy meringue that beautifully complements the tangy lemon filling.

• Broil with Care: When broiling the cookies to brown the meringue, keep a close eye on them! The meringue can go from beautifully golden to burnt in just a minute or two.

• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid refrigerating them, as it can cause the meringue to weep and lose its delightful texture.

How to Serve Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

These charming cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top of the meringue adds a pop of color and more citrus flavor.
• Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves beside each cookie can introduce a refreshing contrast to the tangy lemon.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal berries and melons offers a refreshing balance alongside the sweetness of the cookies.
• Herbal Tea: Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, makes for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruits creates a wholesome side dish that complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
• Lemonade: A glass of freshly squeezed lemonade not only matches the flavor profile but also enhances the overall lemony experience.

Enjoy making your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, and let your creativity shine in how you serve them! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them, ensuring you always have a delightful treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble the cookies but do not broil the meringue.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• When ready to enjoy, preheat your oven’s broiler.
• Place frozen cookies on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
• Let cool slightly before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe.

Can I make the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies recipe without eggs?

Yes! Instead of using egg whites for the meringue, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a great egg substitute. Just whip it until stiff peaks form.

How should I store my Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies?

Store your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

You can use bottled lemon juice if fresh isn’t available, but fresh lemon juice provides a brighter flavor that enhances the cookies’ taste.

What makes these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies special?

These cookies capture the essence of classic lemon meringue pie in a delightful bite-sized treat. They’re light, airy, and filled with tangy lemon goodness!

How do I get the perfect meringue topping on my cookies?

To achieve perfect meringue, ensure your mixing bowl is clean and dry, and gradually add sugar while beating until stiff peaks form. This will give you that delightful texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies! They bring together all the flavors we love from traditional lemon meringue pie into a fun cookie format. Whether you’re preparing them for a gathering or simply treating yourself, I’m sure they’ll bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with family and friends!