Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings sunshine to your day, then you must try this Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe! These little gems capture the zesty brightness of classic lemon meringue pie in a fun, bite-sized form. They are perfect for brightening up a busy weeknight or impressing your friends at family gatherings. Every bite bursts with tangy lemon flavor and a light, airy meringue that will leave you wanting more!

This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking with your kids or surprising someone special, these cookies are sure to spread joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the refreshing lemon flavor and fluffy meringue topping.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a brunch, snack time, or dessert after dinner, these cookies fit right in!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Delightful Flavor: The combination of tart lemon and sweet meringue creates an irresistible treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Gather these items before you start for a smooth baking experience!

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 Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe is flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Some Zest: Mix in extra lemon zest into the cookie base for an even stronger citrus flavor.
• Change Up the Sugar: Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
• Try Different Extracts: A splash of vanilla or almond extract can add an interesting twist to the meringue topping.
• Make it Colorful: Add a drop of natural food coloring to your meringue for a fun presentation.

How to Make Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cutting chilled butter into this mix until it resembles coarse crumbs is crucial; it ensures your cookies will be flaky and tender. Once combined, press the dough together to form a ball. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your chilled dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Cut out circles with your favorite cookie cutter. Placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper helps prevent sticking while they bake. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they turn lightly golden—this is where your kitchen starts smelling heavenly!

Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling

While your cookies cool on the baking sheet, let’s whip up that zesty lemon filling! In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, granulated sugar, egg yolk, cornstarch, and lemon zest. Cooking this mixture over medium heat while stirring constantly is key—it thickens up beautifully when it reaches boiling point! Once thickened, remove it from heat and allow it to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Meringue

In another bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Adding cream of tartar helps stabilize your meringue as you beat until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time; this will create those beautiful stiff peaks we want in our meringue.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Spoon a small amount of cooled lemon filling onto each cookie base. Then top each with a dollop of fluffy meringue—don’t be shy here! The more meringue you add, the more delightful each bite will be.

Step 6: Broil for Perfection

Finally, pop those assembled cookies under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes—keep an eye on them as they brown quickly! Once lightly golden brown on top, let them cool completely before serving. Enjoy every mouthwatering bite of these mini delights!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Making these delightful cookies can be a breeze with the right tips! Here are some helpful pointers to ensure your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps it firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes without sticking or tearing.

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor significantly compared to bottled juice, giving your cookies that vibrant, zesty taste that truly captures the essence of lemon meringue pie.

• Achieve Perfect Meringue: To make sure your meringue has stiff peaks, ensure there is no grease on your mixing bowl or beaters. This will help the egg whites whip up beautifully and create that light, airy texture we all love.

• Broil Carefully: Keep a close eye on your cookies while broiling; they can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. It’s best to stay nearby during this process!

• Cool Completely Before Serving: Letting the cookies cool completely allows the filling and meringue to set properly. This way, you’ll have an enjoyable bite rather than a messy treat!

How to Serve Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies not only taste divine, but they also look stunning on any dessert table! Here are some fun ideas for presenting and serving them.

Garnishes

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top of the meringue adds a burst of color and enhances the citrus aroma.
• Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves placed alongside the cookies can add a touch of green and a refreshing contrast to the tangy lemon flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a sweet and tart complement to the cookies and adds vibrant color to your plate.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve these cookies with whipped coconut cream. It’s light and creamy, balancing nicely with the tangy lemon filling.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Pair your cookies with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade. The chilled beverage will enhance the overall experience and keep things cool during warm weather gatherings.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits makes for a delightful side dish that complements the bright flavors of your cookies.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family with your delicious Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies! Enjoy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats whenever a craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If the weather is humid, it’s best to keep them in the refrigerator to prevent the meringue from becoming sticky.

Freezing

• To freeze the cookies, let them cool completely after baking.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use store-bought lemon curd for the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using store-bought lemon curd can save you some hassle while still providing that delicious tangy flavor.

What makes these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe different from traditional lemon meringue pie?

These cookies capture all the flavors of classic lemon meringue pie but in a fun and portable cookie form, making them perfect for gatherings or as a sweet snack.

How long do these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies will last up to 2 days at room temperature or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Can I make these cookies without egg whites?

For a vegan alternative, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead of egg whites. It whips up nicely and works well in meringues!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they’re a little piece of sunshine that brings joy to any gathering. Whether it’s for brunch with friends or simply a sweet pick-me-up during your day, these cookies are sure to impress. Happy baking!