Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas
Deliciously refreshing, these Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups combine the tangy taste of lemon with a creamy filling, all nestled in a sweet cookie shell.
Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups are the perfect blend of tart and sweet. Inspired by classic lemon meringue pie, these delightful treats are not only visually appealing but incredibly delicious. Ideal for summer gatherings or a fun dessert at home, they are sure to impress your family and friends!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up your day
- Creamy filling that is both light and rich
- Cute, individual servings perfect for sharing
- An easy recipe that even beginners can master
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups are not only delicious but also versatile, making them the ideal dessert for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, a birthday party, or simply want to treat yourself, these cookie cups are sure to impress. Their bright and zesty flavor profile brings a refreshing twist to traditional desserts, providing a delightful end to any meal.
The individual servings of these cookie cups make them perfect for sharing. You can easily prepare a batch in advance and serve them at gatherings, where they will disappear quickly. Their charming presentation and delicious taste are bound to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Baking Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect cookie cup shape, make sure to press the dough firmly into the muffin tin, ensuring that the sides are well-formed. This will help create a sturdy shell that holds the creamy lemon filling beautifully. Don't be afraid to adjust the baking time slightly, as ovens can vary. Look for a light golden color for the best texture.
When whipping the heavy cream for the filling, be careful not to overbeat it. You want soft peaks that will hold their shape without becoming too stiff. Gently folding in the lemon juice and zest will help maintain the lightness of the whipped cream, giving you that perfect creamy texture.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
These Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert. Just ensure they are covered to prevent them from drying out. If you want to prepare them even further ahead, you can bake the cookie cups and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to fill them with the lemon mixture.
For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing each cookie cup with a sprinkle of additional lemon zest or a dollop of whipped cream just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor that complements the lemon filling beautifully.
Ingredients
Gather the ingredients before you start baking!
For the Cookie Cups
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to check if you have everything on hand!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups.
Make the Cookie Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add in the flour and salt until just combined.
Shape the Cookie Cups
Roll the dough into small balls and place them in a greased muffin tin. Press each ball into the bottom and up the sides to form a cup. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden. Allow to cool completely.
Prepare the Lemon Filling
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to whip. Then, gently fold in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Assemble the Cookie Cups
Once the cookie cups are cool, fill each one with the lemon filling. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups!
Nutritional Information
These Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups provide a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making them a satisfying treat. Each cup is rich in flavor but can be enjoyed in moderation. With the use of fresh lemon juice and zest, you're also getting a dose of vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and provide a refreshing zing!
While these cookie cups do contain sugar and butter, they can be made lighter by adjusting the filling ingredients or using alternative sweeteners. For a healthier twist, consider substituting some of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which will give you a creamy texture with added protein.
Variations to Try
If you're looking to switch up the flavor profile, consider experimenting with different citrus fruits. Lime or orange can be used in place of lemon for a unique twist on this classic recipe. Each variation will bring its own distinct flavor, making it a fun challenge to discover your favorite.
For a chocolate lover's version, you could also add a layer of chocolate ganache at the bottom of each cookie cup before filling them with the lemon mixture. This combination of chocolate and lemon will create a decadent treat that is sure to wow your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Yes, store-bought cookie dough can be used for a quicker preparation.
→ How long do these cookie cups last?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to use.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative if you're looking for a lighter option.
Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups
Deliciously refreshing, these Lemon Cream Pie Cookie Cups combine the tangy taste of lemon with a creamy filling, all nestled in a sweet cookie shell.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 cookie cups
What You'll Need
For the Cookie Cups
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add in the flour and salt until just combined.
Roll the dough into small balls and place them in a greased muffin tin. Press each ball into the bottom and up the sides to form a cup. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden. Allow to cool completely.
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to whip. Then, gently fold in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Once the cookie cups are cool, fill each one with the lemon filling. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 2g