Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the refreshing zing of lemon with the lightness of meringue, you’re in for a real delight! This Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe is a favorite in my kitchen. It brings together the classic flavors of lemon meringue pie but in a fun, bite-sized cookie form. Perfect for gatherings or simply as an indulgent snack on a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends.

The best part? They’re easy to whip up and can brighten your day anytime. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe fits right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Tangy: Each bite bursts with zesty lemon flavor, just like your favorite pie.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this recipe approachable for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet treats, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the cookies in advance for stress-free entertaining.
• Lovely Presentation: The light meringue topping makes these cookies look as good as they taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients you need for this delightful recipe! They are simple and wholesome—perfect for creating those lovely Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies. Gather these items before you start 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 flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Flavoring: Mix in a splash of vanilla extract to add depth to your lemon filling.
• Try Different Zests: Experiment with lime or orange zest for a unique twist on flavor.
• Decorate with Fruit: Top each cookie with fresh berries for extra color and flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

How to Make Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cutting in the chilled butter until it resembles coarse crumbs is essential because it creates that flaky texture we love. Once mixed, press the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

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 and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake them for 8-10 minutes until they are lightly golden. Letting them cool completely is crucial so they can hold up when adding the filling.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, granulated sugar, egg yolk, cornstarch, and lemon zest. Stirring constantly is key here; it ensures that everything thickens nicely without burning. Once thickened and bubbly, remove it from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Meringue Topping

In another bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer until foamy. Adding cream of tartar helps stabilize the meringue. Gradually mix in granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. This process creates that airy texture we want!

Step 5: Assemble Your Cookies

Spoon a small amount of cooled lemon filling onto each cookie base. Then top each one with a generous dollop of meringue.

Step 6: Broil to Perfection

Finally, pop them under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes until the meringue is lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them—this step happens quickly! Let them cool completely before serving.

And there you have it—a delightful batch of Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies that will surely bring smiles all around! Enjoy every tangy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Making Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfect every time!

• Use chilled ingredients: Starting with chilled butter and egg whites helps create a flaky crust and airy meringue, resulting in light and fluffy cookies.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes without shrinking during baking.
• Monitor the meringue closely: When broiling the cookies, keep an eye on them to prevent burning. The meringue can brown quickly, so stay nearby for those last few moments.
• Experiment with flavors: While lemon is delightful, feel free to add other citrus zests or even a hint of vanilla extract in the filling for a unique twist that adds depth to the flavor profile.
• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help keep the meringue from becoming soggy.

How to Serve Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

These cookies are not just delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for various occasions. Here’s how you can present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the lemon flavor.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top gives an elegant finish that looks impressive.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies while adding a burst of color to your plate.
• Lemon sorbet: The citrusy refreshment of lemon sorbet pairs beautifully with these cookies, enhancing their flavor while providing a cool treat.
• Herbed tea: A warm cup of herbal tea is perfect alongside these cookies, as it balances sweetness and provides a cozy touch for any gathering.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies will be not only delightful to eat but also stunningly presented! Enjoy sharing this treat with friends and family who will surely love every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie base and lemon filling ahead of time, making it easy to assemble and enjoy them whenever a sweet craving hits.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover lemon filling, keep it in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed container.
• Avoid stacking the cookies with meringue on top, as the meringue can become soggy.

Freezing

• To freeze the cookies, bake them without the meringue and filling, then cool completely.
• Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before adding lemon filling and meringue.

Reheating

• If you want to reheat your cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• After reheating, add fresh lemon filling and meringue if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

What is a Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe?

A Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe transforms the classic dessert into bite-sized cookies that feature a zesty lemon filling topped with fluffy meringue.

Can I make Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe without eggs?

While eggs are essential for both the filling and meringue in this recipe, you can explore egg replacers like aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for a vegan-friendly alternative!

How long do Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies last?

Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies can last up to 3 days stored properly at room temperature or up to 2 months in the freezer when baked without toppings.

What is the best way to store Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies?

To maintain their freshness, store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep any lemon filling separately in the fridge.

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

Yes! Bottled lemon juice works well if you don’t have fresh lemons on hand, but fresh juice will give you a brighter flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe as delightful as I do! These little treats bring all the joy of traditional lemon meringue pie into a convenient cookie form. Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing them with loved ones, they’re sure to brighten anyone’s day. Enjoy your baking adventure, and I can’t wait for you to try these scrumptious cookies!