Ah, the classic lemon meringue pie – a timeless dessert that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many. But what if we told you there’s a playful, bite-sized version that’s just as delectable? Introducing the Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, a delightful treat that combines the tangy sweetness of lemon with the fluffy lightness of meringue. Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure that will leave you craving more!

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The Delicious History of Lemon Meringue Desserts

The origins of lemon meringue pie can be traced back to the 19th century, when the combination of tart lemon and sweet meringue became a beloved dessert. Over the years, this classic has evolved, inspiring creative interpretations like our Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies. By transforming the traditional pie into a handheld cookie, we’ve captured the essence of the flavors you love in a bite-sized delight.

Ingredients Needed for Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies

To create these delightful Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

150 g light brown sugar (about 3/4 cup)
Zest from 2 lemons
90 g unsalted butter, softened (approximately 6 1/3 tablespoons)
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla essence
160 g all-purpose flour (around 1 1/3 cups)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
28 g unsalted butter, cut into cubes (2 tablespoons)
65 g white sugar (about 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon)
40 g fresh lemon juice (roughly 3 tablespoons)
Zest of 1 lemon
2 egg yolks
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 egg whites
100 g white sugar (equivalent to 1/2 cup)
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla essence

The key to these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The lemon zest and juice will provide the perfect balance of tart and sweet, while the meringue topping adds a light and airy texture that complements the cookie base beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies

Ready to get baking? Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of delectable Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Make Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together 150 g light brown sugar, 90 g softened butter, egg, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Mix in flour, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until combined.
Prepare Lemon Filling: In a small saucepan, melt 28 g butter over low heat. Stir in 65 g sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, 2 egg yolks, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Let cool slightly.
Assemble Cookies: Scoop dough into small balls and flatten slightly on the baking sheet. Make a small well in the center of each and spoon in the lemon filling.
Bake Cookies: Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Make Meringue: In a clean bowl, beat 2 egg whites with 100 g sugar, 1/8 teaspoon salt, cornstarch, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Top Cookies: Pipe or spoon the meringue onto the cooled cookies. Optionally, lightly toast the meringue with a kitchen torch or under a broiler for 1–2 minutes.
Serve: Allow the meringue to set slightly before serving these delightful Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies

To ensure your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Choose the Right Lemons: Look for lemons with a vibrant yellow color and a firm, heavy feel. The zest and juice from these lemons will provide the optimal flavor balance.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the egg and butter to come to room temperature before using for best results. This will help create a smooth, creamy cookie dough and meringue.
Achieving the Perfect Meringue: Be sure to beat the egg whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks. This will ensure the meringue topping stays fluffy and doesn’t weep.
Storing for Freshness: Store the cooled Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The meringue may soften slightly, but the cookies will maintain their delicious flavor.

Variations on Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies

While the classic Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are a delightful treat, you can also explore a variety of creative variations:

Lime Meringue Cookies: Substitute lime zest and juice for the lemon for a tangy twist on the classic.
Gluten-Free Lemon Meringue Cookies: Use almond flour or coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
Vegan Lemon Meringue Cookies: Replace the egg and butter with vegan alternatives, such as aquafaba (chickpea liquid) for the meringue and plant-based butter for the cookie dough.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies

These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Pair them with a refreshing cup of tea, a tangy lemonade, or even a light cocktail for a perfect balance of flavors. They also make a stunning addition to any dessert table or party platter, adding a touch of elegance and whimsy to your celebrations.

Nutritional Information for Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies

While these Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies are a decadent indulgence, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Each cookie contains approximately 150 calories, with a breakdown of 18g of carbohydrates, 7g of fat, and 2g of protein. To enjoy these treats in a healthier way, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe. Ultimately, the key is to savor the flavors and texture while being mindful of portion sizes.

FAQs About Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies

What ingredients are needed to make lemon meringue pie cookies?

To make Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, you’ll need ingredients for the cookie dough, lemon filling, and meringue topping. The key ingredients include light brown sugar, unsalted butter, lemon zest and juice, eggs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and white sugar.

How do I get the meringue to stay fluffy on the cookies?

To ensure the meringue topping stays fluffy on your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, be sure to beat the egg whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks. Additionally, adding a small amount of cornstarch and vanilla essence to the meringue can help it maintain its light and airy texture.

Can these cookies be made ahead of time and stored?

Yes, you can make Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies in advance. Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The meringue topping may soften slightly over time, but the cookies will still maintain their delicious flavor.

Are there any substitutions for eggs in the meringue for a vegan version?

To create a vegan version of Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) in place of the egg whites for the meringue topping. Whip the aquafaba until it forms stiff, glossy peaks, then use it just as you would the egg whites.

Conclusion

Indulge in the irresistible combination of tart lemon and fluffy meringue with these delightful Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a flavor-filled adventure with these delectable Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

Discover the Joy of Lemon Meringue Pie Cookies Today!