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Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies

A close-up view of several crumbly Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies filled with bright yellow lemon curd on a white plate.

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A recipe for buttery shortbread cookies with a bright lemon curd center, perfect for tea time or holidays.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until just combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Roll the chilled dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
  8. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
  9. Use your thumb or the back of a small measuring spoon to press a deep indentation into the center of each dough ball, creating a well for the filling.
  10. Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of lemon curd into each indentation. Do not overfill.
  11. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The curd will set slightly as it cools.
  12. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  13. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Notes

  • For the best results, chill the dough thoroughly before forming the prints.
  • If your lemon curd seems too runny, you can chill it briefly before filling the cookies.
  • Do not bake the cookies until the curd is completely set; it will firm up as the cookies cool down.

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