Lemon Bar Cookie Recipe
Lemon bars are a classic dessert known for their perfect balance of tart lemon flavor and a sweet, buttery crust. But if you love the bright, zesty flavor of lemon bars and are looking for a fun twist, then Lemon Bar Cookies are the perfect treat! These cookies offer all the same tangy lemon flavor you love, but with a chewy, cookie-like texture and an added sprinkle of powdered sugar. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday, party, or a simple afternoon snack, these Lemon Bar Cookies are sure to be a hit.
About the Recipe
Lemon Bar Cookies are a delightful hybrid of a cookie and a traditional lemon bar. The base of these cookies is buttery and slightly crumbly, providing the same satisfying richness as a lemon bar crust. On top, a vibrant lemon filling is baked until set, and once they cool, they’re dusted with powdered sugar for the perfect finishing touch. The bright, citrusy flavor is the star of the show, balanced with just the right amount of sweetness to keep the cookies light and refreshing.
What makes these cookies so special is their easy-to-make nature compared to traditional lemon bars, while still delivering all the same flavor and texture. Instead of waiting for a full pan of lemon bars to bake and chill, these cookies come together quickly and are baked in individual cookie portions. Plus, they’re portable and easy to share, making them ideal for a picnic, bake sale, or treat tray.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
– Total Time: 35-40 minutes
– Servings: 24 cookies
Why You Will Love This Recipe (5 Distinguished Points)
1. Cheese Lovers’ Delight: The creamy cheese sauce and melted cheese topping make this casserole an irresistible treat for cheese lovers.
2. Versatile Side Dish: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from roast chicken and beef to grilled fish and pork.
3. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish comes together quickly and requires minimal effort.
4. Vegetable-Focused: Despite being indulgent, this casserole highlights fresh, nutritious asparagus, turning it into a comforting and satisfying vegetable dish.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy topping will be a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients Notes
– Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon juice and zest are essential for giving these cookies the bright, citrusy flavor that makes them so refreshing. Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same vibrant flavor.
– Butter: Use unsalted butter for the best results so you can control the saltiness.
– Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly in this recipe to give the cookies the right amount of structure and texture.
– Powdered Sugar: For the signature sweetness and to top off the cookies, powdered sugar (also known as confectioner’s sugar) is essential for that finishing touch.
– Eggs: Eggs help provide structure and a rich texture to the cookie base and lemon filling.
How to Make Lemon Bar Cookies
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 egg, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Make the Lemon Filling: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.
5. Fill the Cookies: Make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball using your finger or the back of a spoon. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the lemon filling into each indentation.
6. Bake the Cookies: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden and the lemon filling is set. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the cookies have cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for an added sweetness and decorative finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy: These cookies are perfect with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat for any occasion.
Storage Options
– Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
– Refrigeration: If you prefer your cookies to be extra chilled, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
– Freezing: Lemon Bar Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store them in a single layer in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
– Gluten-Free: You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
– Add a Cranberry Twist: For an added burst of color and flavor, try adding a handful of dried cranberries or fresh raspberries to the dough for a fruity twist.
– Lemon Cream Cheese: For an even richer lemon flavor, you can substitute half of the butter in the dough with softened cream cheese.
– Lemon Poppy Seed: For a classic lemon poppy seed variation, add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the dough for a little crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Lemon Bar Cookies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings together the best of lemon bars and cookies in one irresistible bite. With their tangy, refreshing flavor and chewy texture, they’re the perfect sweet snack for any time of year. Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert for a gathering or just craving something sweet and citrusy, these cookies will surely become a favorite. Simple to make, beautifully bright, and utterly delicious, Lemon Bar Cookies are the perfect balance of tart and sweet in every bite.