Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe - Fruity Desserts
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delight in the zesty flavors of our Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, a fun twist on the classic dessert that combines crispy cookies with a fluffy meringue topping.
These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies capture the essence of a classic lemon meringue pie in a bite-sized treat. Perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delightful dessert!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Bright and tangy lemon flavor that awakens your taste buds
- Soft, chewy cookie base topped with a light and airy meringue
- Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a personal treat
A Twist on a Classic
Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies bring a delightful twist to the traditional lemon meringue pie. Combining the best elements of both, these cookies offer a crispy base with a soft, chewy texture, topped with a cloud-like meringue. The bright citrus flavor shines through, making each bite a refreshing experience. Perfect for those who love fruity desserts, these cookies capture the essence of the beloved pie while being easy to make and share.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are the ideal treat. They allow you to enjoy the classic flavors of lemon meringue pie in a fun and portable form. Plus, kids and adults alike will enjoy the interactive experience of topping their cookies with fluffy meringue!
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
To ensure your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies turn out perfectly, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and precise measurements can make a significant difference in the final product. Use a kitchen scale for the best results, especially for the flour and sugar.
When mixing the dough, be careful not to overwork it. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies, whereas a gentle hand will yield a soft and chewy texture. Additionally, letting the cookie dough chill for about 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavor and make it easier to handle.
Lastly, keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Every oven is different, and while the recipe suggests 12-15 minutes, you might find that your cookies are ready a bit sooner or need a minute longer. Watch for the edges to turn lightly golden for the best results.
Enjoying Your Cookies
Once your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are baked and topped, let them sit for a few minutes to allow the meringue to set. This will help it maintain its shape when you serve them. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect centerpiece for dessert tables.
Pair these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. The lemon flavor complements the warmth of your beverage, creating a cozy experience. They also make for a great gift; simply package them in a decorative box, and you have a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors by adding a hint of lime zest or using flavored extracts in your meringue. With a few tweaks, you can customize these cookies to suit your taste, ensuring that they remain a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies:
For the Cookies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Meringue
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before starting!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies:
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Make the Meringue
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Top and Toast the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled, spoon or pipe the meringue onto each cookie. Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue until golden brown, or place under the broiler for a few seconds, watching closely to avoid burning.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the meringue set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies with family and friends!
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
Storage Tips
To keep your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain the texture of the meringue and prevent it from becoming soggy. If you have leftover cookies, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between layers to maintain their crispness.
For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. This will prevent them from sticking together and allow you to enjoy them at a later time.
Nutritional Information
Each Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. While they are a treat, it's essential to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you're watching your sugar intake. The combination of butter and sugar creates a rich cookie base, while the meringue adds a light, airy touch.
Consider serving these cookies with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt for a more balanced dessert option. This pairing can enhance the fruity flavors and provide a nourishing element, making your dessert not just delicious but also satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them.
→ Can I use a different flavor instead of lemon?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other citrus flavors such as lime or orange.
→ What if my meringue doesn't form stiff peaks?
Make sure your mixing bowl and utensils are clean and free from any grease. Also, ensure that no egg yolk has mixed with the egg whites.
Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe - Fruity Desserts
Delight in the zesty flavors of our Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, a fun twist on the classic dessert that combines crispy cookies with a fluffy meringue topping.
Created by: Celeste Morgan
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Meringue
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Once the cookies have cooled, spoon or pipe the meringue onto each cookie. Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue until golden brown, or place under the broiler for a few seconds, watching closely to avoid burning.
Let the meringue set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies with family and friends!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g