Introduction
Lemon Cookie Cups are a delightful treat that combines the bright, tangy flavor of lemon with the softness of cookie dough. These mini dessert cups are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a family gathering, or simply a sweet snack to enjoy at home. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your guests with their charming appearance and refreshing taste.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1. All-purpose flour – 1 ¾ cups
2. Granulated sugar – ¾ cup
3. Baking soda – ½ teaspoon
4. Salt – ¼ teaspoon
5. Unsalted butter – ½ cup, softened
6. Eggs – 1 large
7. Fresh lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
8. Lemon zest – 1 tablespoon
9. Powdered sugar – for dusting
Prep Time
Preparation for these delightful cookie cups takes about 15 minutes. This includes measuring out your ingredients and mixing the dough, giving you ample time to get everything ready before baking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cookie cups need approximately 10-12 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, from prep to finish, you should expect about 30 minutes. This recipe yields about 12 cookie cups, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying over several days.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cookie cups.
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
Shape the Cookie Cups
Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls into a mini muffin tin. Press each ball down to form a cup shape, ensuring they are evenly spread.
Bake the Cookie Cups
Place the mini muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool the Cookie Cups
Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Carefully transfer the cookie cups to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Lemon Filling
In a separate mixing bowl, blend together lemon juice, lemon zest, and powdered sugar. Stir until well combined and smooth.
Fill the Cookie Cups
Once the cookie cups have cooled completely, fill each cup with the prepared lemon filling, ensuring each is heaped for a delightful presentation.
Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the filled cookie cups for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the lemon filling to set and enhances the flavor.
Notes
Storage Tips
Store any leftover lemon cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Variations
Feel free to experiment by adding a dollop of whipped cream or meringue on top of the filling for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon cookie cups make a refreshing dessert for gatherings, especially during warm weather, and pair well with a cup of tea or coffee.
Allergy Considerations
Ensure to check for any dietary restrictions and modify the ingredients accordingly for gluten-free or dairy-free options if needed.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Cookie Dough
Mix the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then gradually add in the dry ingredients. Ensure everything is well combined for a smooth dough.
Shaping the Cookie Cups
Using a small scoop or your hands, form the dough into balls and press them into a greased muffin tin to create cup shapes.
Baking the Cookie Cups
Bake the cups until the edges are golden brown while ensuring the centers remain slightly soft to retain their shape when cooled.
Cooling the Cookie Cups
Allow the cookie cups to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Filling the Cookie Cups
Once cooled, carefully fill each cookie cup with your desired filling, such as lemon curd or cream cheese frosting, to enhance the flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different filling other than lemon curd?
Yes, you can use various fillings such as chocolate ganache, fruit preserves, or cream cheese frosting to suit your taste.
How do I prevent the cookie cups from sticking to the muffin tin?
Make sure to grease the muffin tin well or use parchment paper liners to help prevent sticking.
Can I make the cookie dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking.
What should I do if my cookie cups collapse?
If the cups collapse, it could be due to overmixing or not baking them long enough; ensure proper mixing and baking times.
How long do the cookie cups stay fresh?
The cookie cups can stay fresh at room temperature for about 3-4 days, or you can refrigerate them for longer shelf life.
Conclusion
The lemon cookie cups are a delightful treat that combine the refreshing taste of lemon with a soft, cookie-like base. Their easy preparation and delicious flavor make them an ideal choice for any occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration. These cookie cups are not only visually appealing but also provide a burst of citrus goodness that will leave everyone coming back for more.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Meringue Pie
This classic dessert combines a tart lemon filling with a fluffy meringue topping, offering a balance of sweet and sour flavors that lemon lovers will adore.
Lemon Blueberry Muffins
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Lemon Basil Pasta
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Lemonade Stand Punch
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