Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the zingy flavor of lemon with the lightness of meringue, you’ve come to the right place! This Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe is one of my absolute favorites. These cookies capture that familiar taste of classic lemon meringue pie but in a fun, bite-sized form. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a delightful dessert.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re baking with kids or just want to treat yourself, these cookies will bring joy to anyone who takes a bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready.
• Bright Flavors: The tangy lemon filling will brighten any day and make your taste buds dance!
• Impressive Presentation: Serve these cookies at gatherings, and watch your friends marvel at your baking skills!

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Gather these items, and let’s get started on this scrumptious journey!

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

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add a Twist: Incorporate a bit of lime juice along with the lemon for a zesty citrus blend.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent treat.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts on top of the meringue before broiling for added texture.
• Fruit Flavors: Swap out the lemon juice for other fruit juices like orange or raspberry for a different fruity flair.

How to Make Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. This blend creates a light base for our cookies. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. It’s important to keep the butter cold; this helps achieve that flaky texture we love in cookies.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Press the dough together into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the butter to firm up again so that when you roll out your dough later, it holds its shape beautifully.

Step 3: Roll and Cut

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out circles. This step is where your cookies take shape—feel free to use fun shapes if you’d like!

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet; this helps them firm up nicely.

Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Filling

In a saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, granulated sugar, egg yolk, cornstarch, and lemon zest over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened and boiling—this creates that luscious filling we all adore!

Step 6: Make the Meringue

In a large bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Add cream of tartar; continue beating until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time until stiff peaks form. This fluffy meringue will top our delicious cookies!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cookies

Spoon a small amount of lemon filling onto each cooled cookie followed by a dollop of meringue on top. Don’t worry about being perfect; they’ll look charming regardless!

Step 8: Broil for Perfection

Broil your assembled cookies for just 1-2 minutes or until the meringue is lightly golden brown—watch carefully so they don’t burn! Allow them to cool completely before serving.

Now that you’ve created these delightful Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, it’s time to share them with family and friends—or keep them all to yourself! Enjoy every tangy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

Making these cookies is a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can elevate your results. Here are some helpful pointers to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps to firm it up, making it easier to roll out without sticking and ensuring a flaky texture when baked.

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Opt for fresh lemon juice instead of bottled. Fresh juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor that truly captures the essence of lemon meringue pie.

• Beat Egg Whites Correctly: When beating the egg whites, make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry. Any grease can prevent the egg whites from reaching their full volume, which is crucial for achieving those nice stiff peaks.

• Watch the Broiler Closely: When broiling the meringue, keep a close eye on it as it can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds! A little patience goes a long way in achieving that beautiful color.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a twist by incorporating other citrus zest—like lime or orange—into your lemon filling. It adds complexity to the flavor and makes your cookies unique!

How to Serve Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe

These cookies are not just tasty; they’re also visually appealing! Present them beautifully for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy afternoon treat. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience:

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: Top each cookie with a few fresh raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Mint Leaves: A small sprig of mint adds a lovely touch of green and enhances the aromatic experience.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the tartness of the cookies while adding a rich texture.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can balance out the sweetness and add extra nutrients.
• Herbal Tea: Serve these cookies alongside warm herbal tea like chamomile or mint for a soothing pairing that enhances their flavors.
• Lemonade: For an extra citrusy treat, pair with homemade lemonade—it’s refreshing and ties in beautifully with the lemon theme!

Now that you have all these serving suggestions and tips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Enjoy every bite of these delightful Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them, ensuring you always have a delightful treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cookies, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-10 minutes until they reach your desired warmth.
• Be careful not to overheat, as this can affect the texture of the meringue.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe that may help you!

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

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I store Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

What makes these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies special?

These cookies combine the refreshing taste of lemon with fluffy meringue, offering a delightful twist on traditional lemon meringue pie, all in a bite-sized form!

Can I use egg substitutes in this Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe?

Yes! You can use egg replacers such as flax eggs or commercial egg substitutes; however, this may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies as much as I do! They bring together the bright tanginess of lemon and the sweetness of meringue in such an enjoyable way. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are sure to impress. Happy baking!