Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest; 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup lemon curd or your favorite jam

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings

Delight in the zesty brightness of Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies, a perfect blend of sweet and tart that will brighten any occasion.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-20T10:37:49.817Z

Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the unique flavor of Meyer lemons with a buttery cookie base. These cookies are perfect for tea parties, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence for yourself.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor that awakens your taste buds
Soft, buttery texture with a delightful jam filling
Easy to make, perfect for bakers of all levels

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavor

Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the sweet and tart flavors of Meyer lemons. These cookies offer a refreshing burst of citrus that can brighten any dessert table or afternoon tea. The unique taste of Meyer lemons, which are a cross between a lemon and a mandarin orange, adds a subtle sweetness that is less tart than regular lemons. This makes these cookies a crowd-pleaser, appealing to those who might shy away from overly tangy desserts.

The addition of a luscious jam or lemon curd filling enhances the cookies' flavor profile even further. As you take a bite, the soft, buttery cookie melts in your mouth, while the vibrant filling adds an extra layer of deliciousness. It's a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy, making them ideal for any occasion.

A Cookie for Every Occasion

These Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are versatile enough to suit a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a spring gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, these cookies fit the bill. Their bright flavor and beautiful appearance make them an excellent choice for festive events or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

Additionally, they can be enjoyed year-round, as Meyer lemons are typically available from late fall to early spring. Their sunny flavor can bring a touch of summer to your winter celebrations, making them a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature. This step is crucial for creating a light and fluffy dough. Avoid using melted butter, as it can lead to dense cookies. Also, be gentle when mixing in the flour; overmixing can result in tough cookies.

When creating the thumbprint in the cookies, be careful not to press too hard, as this can cause the cookies to crack. A light indentation is all you need to hold the delicious filling. Finally, keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. Remove the cookies when the edges are just lightly golden for the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious cookies:

For the Cookies

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

For the Filling

1/2 cup lemon curd or your favorite jam

Make sure to have everything ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, Meyer lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.

Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Fill and Bake

Fill each indentation with your choice of lemon curd or jam. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies!

Storage Tips

Storing your Meyer Lemon Thumbprint Cookies properly will help maintain their freshness and flavor. Allow the cookies to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week, making them perfect for snacking throughout the week.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy a taste of sunshine.

Variations to Try

While Meyer lemon is the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with different flavors. Try substituting the lemon curd with your favorite fruit jam, such as raspberry or strawberry, for a delightful twist. You can also add a hint of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor, which pairs beautifully with the lemon.

For a festive touch, consider adding colorful sprinkles or a dusting of powdered sugar on top of the cookies after baking. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a touch of sweetness that complements the tart filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, you can use regular lemons, but the flavor will be more tart. Adjust the sugar in the recipe to balance the tartness if needed.

→ How should I store the cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I use instead of lemon curd?

You can use any fruit jam or preserve of your choice, such as raspberry or strawberry.