Lemon Zest Thumbprint Cookies

Name: Lemon Zest 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 egg yolk; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup raspberry jam or your favorite jam

Highlighted under: Sugarcraft Creations

These delightful Lemon Zest Thumbprint Cookies are bursting with citrus flavor and filled with your favorite jam, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T19:26:27.701Z

These Lemon Zest Thumbprint Cookies are a family favorite that brings a bright and refreshing twist to traditional cookies. Perfect for tea time or as a sweet treat to share with friends!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor that awakens the palate
Soft and buttery texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile with various fillings like raspberry, apricot, or lemon curd

      

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

Lemon Zest Thumbprint Cookies strike a delightful balance between sweetness and tartness. The bright lemon zest infuses each cookie with a refreshing citrus flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the jam filling. This harmonious blend makes them an irresistible treat for both children and adults alike. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet snack, these cookies promise to awaken your taste buds.

Using high-quality jam enhances the overall flavor, allowing you to customize each cookie according to your preferences. Whether you opt for tart raspberry or sweet apricot, the combination of the lemon cookie base and fruity filling creates a memorable dessert experience.

Ideal for Any Occasion

These Lemon Zest Thumbprint Cookies are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. From holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers, they are sure to impress your guests. Their cheerful color and zesty aroma will brighten up any dessert table, making them a favorite at parties and celebrations.

Additionally, they are simple enough to whip up for a last-minute treat or a thoughtful homemade gift. Imagine presenting a box of these delightful cookies to friends or family—it's a heartfelt gesture that shows you care.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Lemon Zest Thumbprint Cookies turn out perfectly, follow a few simple tips. First, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar. This step is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.

Also, don't skip the chilling step. Refrigerating the dough helps maintain its shape during baking, preventing the cookies from spreading too much. Lastly, be careful not to overbake; the cookies should be lightly golden around the edges for the best texture.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Filling

1/2 cup raspberry jam or your favorite jam

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolk and lemon zest until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for easier handling.

Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough is chilled, roll it into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a lined baking sheet. Use your thumb to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.

Fill and Bake

Fill each indentation with a small amount of jam. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Once cooled, enjoy your cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storage and Shelf Life

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, making them a convenient treat to have on hand. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature. The cookies maintain their delicious flavor and texture, providing a delightful snack whenever the craving strikes.

Variations to Try

While raspberry jam is a classic filling, don't hesitate to experiment with other flavors. Apricot jam adds a lovely sweetness, while lemon curd gives an extra citrus punch that lemon lovers will adore. You can even try chocolate ganache for a rich twist or nut butter for a unique flavor combination.

Feel free to mix and match according to your taste. The versatility of these cookies allows for endless creativity, so get adventurous with your fillings and enjoy the delicious results!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other flavors of jam?

Yes, feel free to use any flavor of jam you prefer!

→ How do 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?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute for a non-dairy option.