Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings a smile to everyone’s face, you’ve come to the right place! The Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe is a true treasure in my kitchen. These cookies capture the bright and zesty flavors of classic lemon meringue pie in a cute, bite-sized form. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, they are sure to impress your loved ones with their lightness and tangy goodness.

What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip these up! With just a few common ingredients and some love, you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies ready to share (or maybe keep all to yourself!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet little treats. They are perfect for any occasion!
• Make ahead: You can prepare the cookie base in advance, so they’re ready when you want them.
• Bursting with flavor: The combination of tangy lemon and fluffy meringue creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe are simple and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 quite flexible! Feel free to experiment with these fun variations:

• Add some color: Stir in some food coloring into the meringue for a festive touch.
• Try different citrus: Swap out lemon juice for lime or orange juice for a unique twist.
• Incorporate spices: A pinch of cinnamon or ginger in the cookie dough can add warmth and depth.
• Make them mini: Use a smaller cookie cutter for bite-sized versions that are even more fun to eat!

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. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial as it creates that light texture we love in cookies!

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Press the dough together to form a ball. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes until they are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet; this ensures they hold their shape well.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Filling

In a saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, granulated sugar, egg yolk, cornstarch, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until thickened and boiling. Removing it from heat allows it to cool completely before adding it onto our cookies.

Step 5: Prepare the Meringue Topping

In a large bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time until stiff peaks form—this creates that beautiful meringue texture we all love!

Step 6: Assemble Your Cookies

Spoon a small amount of lemon filling onto each cooled cookie before topping them with dollops of meringue. This layer adds that iconic look reminiscent of traditional lemon meringue pie.

Step 7: Broil for Perfection

Broil your cookies for just 1-2 minutes or until the meringue is lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them—things can go from perfect to burnt quickly!

Allow your delightful cookies to cool completely before serving them up! Enjoy sharing this wonderful treat with friends and family or savoring them as an afternoon snack—either way, they’ll surely brighten your day!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Creating these delightful cookies is a breeze with a few simple tips to ensure perfection!

• Chill Your Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps to firm it up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes. This step also prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: For the best flavor, always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled. Fresh juice has a vibrant taste that truly shines in your cookies.

• Beat Egg Whites Properly: When whipping egg whites, ensure your bowl is completely clean and dry. Any grease can hinder the egg whites from reaching their full volume, which is key to achieving a fluffy meringue.

• Watch the Broiler Carefully: While broiling the meringue to achieve that golden brown color, keep a close eye on it. It can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in just seconds!

• Store Carefully: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cookies are best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness and texture.

How to Serve Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also make for a stunning presentation at any gathering! Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and enhances the refreshing lemon flavor.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest on top of each cookie gives an extra burst of citrus aroma and brightness.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal berries and melons complements the tangy flavor of the cookies perfectly.

• Vanilla Coconut Yogurt: A dollop of creamy coconut yogurt can add richness and contrast nicely with the tartness of the lemon.

• Herbal Iced Tea: An iced tea infused with herbs like mint or basil provides a refreshing drink option that pairs well with sweet treats.

• Cheese Platter: Offer a small cheese platter featuring mild cheeses (like brie or goat cheese) that balance out the sweetness of the cookies for a delightful contrast.

Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family with these charming Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough, filling, and meringue ahead of time, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just note that the meringue may lose some of its texture.
• To maintain freshness, avoid stacking layers directly on top of each other.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for about 2 months.
• You can also freeze baked cookies without the lemon filling or meringue. Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and add fresh lemon filling and meringue before serving.

Reheating

• If you have leftovers with meringue, simply place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to re-warm and re-crisp the topping.
• For cookies without meringue, warm them in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 5-7 minutes until they are heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re in the right place!

How can I make the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help maintain the cookie’s structure while keeping it gluten-free.

Can I use bottled lemon juice for the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe?

While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just be mindful that it may not taste as vibrant as fresh-squeezed juice.

What should I do if my meringue doesn’t form stiff peaks in the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe?

Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free of any grease or moisture. Additionally, ensure you’re using room-temperature egg whites and adding sugar gradually for better volume.

Can I prepare the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough and lemon filling ahead of time. Just assemble them with meringue right before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe brings joy to your kitchen! It’s such a delightful treat that captures all the sunny flavors of classic lemon meringue pie in a fun cookie form. Enjoy making these with family or friends, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences! Happy baking!