Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe - Fruity Desserts

Name: Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Recipe - Fruity Desserts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, separated; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 large egg whites; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the tangy sweetness of these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, a perfect treat for dessert lovers. These cookies combine the classic flavors of lemon meringue pie in a delightful, bite-sized version.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2025-12-18T16:14:43.723Z

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies bring the classic dessert to life in a fun and easy way. With a zesty lemon filling and a fluffy meringue topping, they are perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Zesty lemon flavor with a sweet meringue topping
Perfectly chewy texture with a crisp exterior
Ideal for parties, gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat

      

The Joy of Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies

There's something incredibly satisfying about indulging in a sweet treat that captures the essence of a classic dessert. Lemon meringue pie cookies bring the delightful flavors of the traditional pie into a compact, cookie form. The tangy lemon filling, paired with a fluffy meringue topping, creates a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds dancing. These cookies are not just a visual delight; they offer a burst of flavor with every bite, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

These cookies are perfect for those who love the refreshing zest of lemon. The addition of lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor, ensuring every bite is filled with tangy goodness. Plus, the chewy texture of the cookie contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the meringue. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Lemon meringue pie cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. Their bright flavor makes them especially popular during spring and summer gatherings, but they also add a festive touch to holiday celebrations. These cookies are a fantastic option for potlucks, tea parties, and birthday celebrations. Their bite-sized nature allows guests to enjoy them as a delightful snack without the need for forks or plates.

Moreover, these cookies also make for a thoughtful homemade gift. Package them in a decorative box or jar and share them with loved ones to spread joy and sweetness. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to be appreciated by anyone who receives them, making them a wonderful way to express affection.

Tips for Success

When preparing these cookies, make sure to have all your ingredients at room temperature, especially the butter and egg whites. This ensures better incorporation and helps achieve the perfect texture for both the cookie and meringue. Additionally, chilling the cookie dough is crucial; it helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much while baking.

For the meringue, be cautious not to overbeat the egg whites. Once stiff peaks form, stop mixing immediately to avoid a grainy texture. If your meringue does not hold its shape, it may be due to traces of fat or yolk in the egg whites, so ensure your mixing bowl and utensils are squeaky clean. Following these tips will help you achieve beautiful, fluffy meringue that crowns your cookies perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious cookies.

For the Cookies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest

For the Lemon Filling

1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon butter

For the Meringue

2 large egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup granulated sugar

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your cookies to perfection.

Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Chill the dough for 15 minutes.

Make the Lemon Filling

In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Set aside to cool.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make an indentation in the center of each cookie and fill it with the lemon filling. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.

Prepare the Meringue

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Spread the meringue over the filled cookies.

Finish Baking

Return the cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the meringue is lightly browned. Allow to cool before serving.

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your lemon meringue pie cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within a few days of baking, as the meringue can become soggy if stored for too long. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but be aware that this may affect the texture of the meringue. For optimal freshness, try to consume them within five days.

If you plan to make these cookies ahead of time, consider preparing the cookie dough and lemon filling separately. You can refrigerate the dough for up to three days and the lemon filling for about a week. When you're ready to bake, simply assemble and bake as instructed, ensuring you have fresh cookies whenever you need them.

Pairing Suggestions

These lemon meringue pie cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a refreshing treat, enjoy them alongside a glass of iced tea or lemonade. The citrus notes of these drinks complement the tanginess of the cookies, creating a delightful experience. For something warmer, consider pairing them with a cup of chamomile or green tea, which will enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

Additionally, if you're looking to serve these cookies at a gathering, consider creating a dessert platter that includes other citrus-flavored treats or light desserts. This will enhance the theme of freshness, making your dessert table inviting and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making the filling?

Yes, store-bought lemon curd can be a convenient alternative for the lemon filling.

→ How do I store leftover cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I do if my meringue doesn't form stiff peaks?

Ensure that your bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any grease, and try adding a pinch more cream of tartar.