Gluten-Free Lemon Curd Cookies Recipe: A Zesty Delight

Looking for a delightful treat that’s both gluten-free and packed with fresh, zesty lemon flavor? These Gluten-Free Lemon Curd Cookies are the perfect combination of soft, chewy cookies with a tangy burst of homemade lemon curd. Whether you’re following a gluten-free diet or simply love the refreshing taste of citrus, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Lemon Curd Cookies:

• Perfectly Soft & Chewy: These cookies have just the right texture, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Zesty & Refreshing Lemon Flavor: The homemade lemon curd adds a rich, tangy layer that enhances the sweetness of the cookie.
• Gluten-Free: Made with gluten-free flour, these cookies cater to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor.

Let’s dive right into the recipe so you can whip up these delicious treats in no time!

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Lemon Curd Cookies:

the cookie dough:

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

the lemon curd:

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1: Prepare the Lemon Curd

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, sugar, and eggs over medium heat.
2. Continue whisking constantly to avoid curdling. Once the mixture begins to thicken (about 5-7 minutes), remove from heat.
3. Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
4. Transfer the lemon curd to a bowl, cover, and let it cool to room temperature. You can even chill it in the fridge for a thicker consistency.

2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the butter mixture, beating until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Chill the cookie dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough and roll them into balls.
2. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball using your thumb or a small spoon.
4. Fill each indentation with about 1 tsp of the prepared lemon curd.
5. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Perfect Gluten-Free Lemon Curd Cookies:

• Chill the dough: If the dough feels too sticky to work with, don’t skip chilling it. This will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest: Fresh lemons give these cookies the vibrant, tangy flavor they need for that burst of citrusy goodness.
• Store in an airtight container: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?
Yes, if you don’t need the cookies to be gluten-free, you can use regular all-purpose flour instead of gluten-free flour. The recipe will still work, but you’ll miss out on that special gluten-free texture.

How do I make the lemon curd ahead of time?
You can make the lemon curd a day or two in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before using it to fill the cookies.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! To make these cookies dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute and ensure the lemon curd is also made with dairy-free butter.

Can I add other flavors to these cookies?
Absolutely! If you want to add more depth to the flavor, try adding a bit of ginger or almond extract to the dough. You could even sprinkle some powdered sugar over the cookies once they’ve cooled for an added touch of sweetness.

How do I make sure the cookies don’t spread too much?
Chilling the dough is essential to keep the cookies from spreading too much. If you notice your dough is too soft, chill it for longer before baking.

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These Gluten-Free Lemon Curd Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a soft, chewy texture. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a citrusy treat, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy every bite and savor the sunshine in your kitchen with these refreshing, gluten-free delights!