Lemon Meringue Cookie Cups

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with lemon flavor: the combination of zesty lemon curd and sweet meringue creates a refreshing and satisfying dessert.

• Impressive and easy: despite their elegant appearance, these cookie cups are surprisingly easy to make, especially when using store-bought cookie dough.

• Perfect portion size: their mini, bite-sized form makes them ideal for parties, picnics, and other gatherings, eliminating the need for slicing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 16.5 ounces refrigerated sugar cookie dough (1 roll)

• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 egg whites

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)

Directions

Cookie Cups

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously coat a mini muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie dough and all-purpose flour. Knead together until well blended.

3. Shape the dough into one-inch balls. Press each ball into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup, forming a cup shape.

4. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown.

5. Remove from oven and let cool for at least ten minutes before gently twisting to remove from the pan. Place on a rack and let cool completely.

Meringue

1. In a mixer bowl, whip the egg whites until foamy.

2. Add the granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.

Assembly

1. Spoon lemon curd into the cooled cookie cups.

2. Drop one tablespoon of meringue on top of the curd in each cup.

3. Place the cups on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and place under the broiler just until the tips of the meringue start to show color. Remove immediately. (Watch closely; broiling can take as little as 15 seconds.) Alternatively, use a kitchen torch to brown the meringue.

4. Let the cookie cups cool completely for at least an hour before serving, allowing the filling and meringue to set properly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookie cups

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 32 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of ground ginger, cardamom, or cinnamon to the cookie dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

• Before adding the meringue, place a spoonful of your favorite fruit jam or compote atop the lemon curd.

• Swirl fresh raspberries or blueberries into the lemon curd for added texture and flavor.

• Garnish the finished cookie cups with fresh berries, lemon zest, or chopped candied citrus peels for a decorative touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Store Components Separately: If not serving immediately, store the cookie cups, lemon curd, and meringue separately to maintain texture and flavor.

• Refrigerator: Assembled cookie cups can be stored in a single layer in an airtight container and refrigerated. For best texture, enjoy within 1-2 days.

• Serving: If refrigerated, let the cookie cups sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance flavors and texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Yes, store-bought lemon curd works well and saves time.

My meringue isn’t stiff enough! What went wrong?

Ensure egg whites are at room temperature and free of yolk. Whip until stiff peaks form.

How do I prevent a soggy cookie crust?

Pre-bake the cookie cups and let them cool completely before adding the filling.

Can I use homemade cookie dough instead of refrigerated?

Yes, homemade sugar cookie dough can be used. Ensure it's well-chilled before shaping.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead and assemble just before serving for best results.

How do I store leftover cookie cups?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days.

Can I freeze the cookie cups?

It's best to freeze the cookie cups without filling. Thaw and assemble when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of a kitchen torch?

A broiler can be used to brown the meringue. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free sugar cookie dough to make the recipe gluten-free.

How do I know when the meringue is properly browned?

The meringue tips should be lightly golden. This can happen quickly under a broiler, so monitor closely.

Conclusion

Lemon Meringue Cookie Cups offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Their bite-sized form and vibrant taste are sure to impress guests and satisfy lemon dessert enthusiasts.