Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice; 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade); Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat, bursting with zesty flavor and a sweet filling. Perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T11:13:49.471Z

These Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies combine the unique flavor of Meyer lemons with a buttery cookie base. The thumbprint filled with lemon curd adds a tangy sweetness that will keep you coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Bright and tangy Meyer lemon flavor in every bite
Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie texture
Perfect for tea time or as a delightful dessert

      

The Unique Flavor of Meyer Lemons

Meyer lemons are a cross between a regular lemon and a mandarin orange, which gives them a unique sweetness that sets them apart. Their thin skin and juicy flesh are bursting with a fragrant, floral aroma that enhances any dish. Using Meyer lemons in your baking not only adds a distinct flavor but also elevates the overall experience of the cookies. They are perfect for those who enjoy a less tart and more nuanced citrus flavor in their treats.

Incorporating Meyer lemons into these thumbprint cookies transforms a classic recipe into something extraordinary. The natural sweetness of the lemons balances beautifully with the buttery cookie base, creating an irresistible combination. With every bite, you'll experience a refreshing burst of brightness, making these cookies a delightful choice for any occasion.

Perfect for All Occasions

Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are versatile enough to suit any event, from casual gatherings to elegant tea parties. Their charming appearance and delightful flavor make them a hit among guests of all ages. Whether you're hosting a brunch or looking for a sweet treat to share with friends, these cookies will surely impress.

Additionally, their easy-to-make nature means you can whip up a batch in no time. The dough can be prepared in advance, allowing you to bake them fresh just before serving. This makes them a practical choice for busy schedules while still delivering a homemade touch that everyone will love.

Tips for the Perfect Thumbprint Cookies

To achieve the best texture for your Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies, ensure your butter is adequately softened before mixing. This allows for better incorporation of air, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cookie. Also, be cautious not to overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added; this helps maintain that melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes these cookies so special.

When creating the thumbprint indentations, consider using a measuring spoon or your thumb for uniformity. This ensures each cookie is filled with just the right amount of lemon curd, providing a perfect balance of flavors. Lastly, allowing the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack helps them maintain their shape.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 large egg yolk
2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

1/2 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Gather all your ingredients to get started!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, Meyer lemon juice, and zest, mixing until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Use your thumb to create an indentation in the center of each ball.

Fill and Bake

Fill each indentation with lemon curd. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve

Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired and enjoy your delicious Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies!

Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a cup of tea!

Serving Suggestions

These delightful cookies pair exceptionally well with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal accompaniment for afternoon gatherings. Consider serving them on a beautifully arranged platter for an elegant presentation. For an added touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or thin slices of Meyer lemon to enhance their visual appeal.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture of the ice cream complements the zesty lemon flavor, creating a delicious dessert experience. For a fun twist, you can also sandwich two cookies together with a layer of lemon curd in between for a delightful treat.

Storage Tips

Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life to about two weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, these cookies freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.

Variations to Try

While Meyer lemons are the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits like limes or oranges for a unique twist. You can also add a touch of almond extract to the cookie dough for a hint of nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the citrus flavor.

For those who love a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts such as almonds or pistachios to the dough. This addition not only enhances the texture but also adds visual interest. You can also try making a chocolate version by substituting a portion of the flour with cocoa powder for a rich, indulgent treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but Meyer lemons have a sweeter flavor, so you may want to adjust the sugar in the recipe.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I use instead of lemon curd?

You can use any fruit jam or preserve as a filling if you prefer.