Lemon Bar Cookie Cups 🍪🍋

Introduction

There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of sweet and tart flavors, especially when it comes to desserts. One of my all-time favorites has always been the classic lemon bar, with its buttery crust and zesty filling. However, when I stumbled upon the idea of transforming this classic into Lemon Bar Cookie Cups, I knew I had to give it a try. These little gems are a perfect blend of a buttery cookie crust and a tangy lemon filling, creating a treat that’s not only delicious but also incredibly cute and easy to serve. My family absolutely loved them, and I can confidently say these will become a staple at our gatherings!

Ingredients

For the Cookie Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Lemon Filling:

• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cookie Crust

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with cupcake liners.
• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
• Divide the cookie dough evenly among the muffin cups, pressing the dough into the bottom and slightly up the sides to form a cup shape.

2. Bake the Cookie Cups

• Bake the cookie cups for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and use the back of a spoon to gently press the center of each cup to maintain its shape.
• Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Make the Lemon Filling

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
• Pour the lemon filling into the center of each cookie cup, filling almost to the top.

4. Bake the Lemon Bar Cookie Cups

• Return the filled cookie cups to the oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the lemon filling is set and the edges of the cookie cups are golden.

5. Cool and Serve

• Allow the cookie cups to cool completely in the muffin tin before removing them.
• Once cooled, dust the tops with powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 200

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the Lemon Bar Cookie Cups chilled or at room temperature.
• Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
• Pair with fresh berries for added flavor and color.
• Drizzle with a little extra lemon juice for a zesty kick.
• Consider serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Additional Tips

1. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemons for the best flavor in your lemon filling. The zest and juice make a significant difference.
2. Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before pressing it into the muffin cups.
3. Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookie cups during baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry filling.
4. Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
5. Storage: Store leftover cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Recipe Variations

• Berry Lemon Cups: Add a layer of fresh blueberries or raspberries in the bottom of each cookie cup before adding the lemon filling for a fruity twist.
• Coconut Lemon Cups: Mix shredded coconut into the lemon filling for a tropical flavor.
• Lemon Meringue Cups: Top with whipped meringue after baking for a lemon meringue pie-inspired treat.
• Herb-Infused: Infuse the lemon filling with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• These Lemon Bar Cookie Cups are perfect for:
• Birthday parties
• Baby showers
• Summer picnics
• Holiday gatherings
• Afternoon tea

FAQ Section

1. Can I make the cookie cups ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the cookie crust a day in advance and fill them with lemon filling right before baking.

1. What can I use if I don’t have lemon juice?

• Lime juice is a great substitute for lemon juice if you want a slightly different flavor.

1. Can I freeze these cookie cups?

• Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled cookie cups. Store them in an airtight container, and they should last for up to 2 months.

1. How long do the cookie cups last in the fridge?

• They can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly.

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

• While fresh lemon juice is preferred for flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

1. What type of flour is best for this recipe?

• All-purpose flour works best for a balanced texture in both the crust and filling.

1. Is there a way to make these cookie cups gluten-free?

• Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

1. Can I add more lemon zest for extra flavor?

• Absolutely! Adding more lemon zest can enhance the flavor even more.

1. How do I know when the filling is set?

• The filling should be slightly firm to the touch and not jiggle when you move the muffin tin.

1. What should I do if my filling is too runny?
   • If your filling is too runny, it might need a bit more flour. Ensure you’re measuring accurately.

Conclusion

These Lemon Bar Cookie Cups are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will surely impress anyone who takes a bite. With their buttery crust and tangy lemon filling, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to indulge in something sweet, these cookie cups are sure to satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this citrusy delight that is bound to become a favorite in your home!

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