Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies – Tangy & Sweet Treat
Hello, lovely readers! If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tangy, then you’re in for a treat today. I’m thrilled to share my beloved recipe for Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies – Tangy & Sweet Treat. These cookies are not only delicious but also make a stunning addition to any gathering. Whether it’s a busy weeknight with the family or a special occasion with friends, these cookies will surely impress everyone!
What makes these cookies truly special is their unique combination of flavors and textures. The creamy lemon curd pairs beautifully with the light, buttery cookie, creating a blissful bite every time. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip these cookies up in no time!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the bright flavor and delightful texture.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when needed.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—be it casual get-togethers or festive celebrations.
- Deliciously Unique: The blend of lemon curd and crème brûlée flavors is sure to leave your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients You’ll Need
These Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this tangy and sweet treat!
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup lemon curd
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
If you have dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture of your cookies. For those looking for a vegan version, simply replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use a plant-based alternative for the butter.
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with these fun variations:
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Zest it Up: Experiment with different citrus zests like orange or lime for a refreshing twist.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in some chopped nuts such as almonds or pistachios for added crunch.
- Fruity Fun: Top your cookies with fresh berries before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
How to Make Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies – Tangy & Sweet Treat
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Begin by creaming together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This process is important as it incorporates air into the mixture, helping your cookies rise beautifully while baking.
Step 2: Add Egg and Flavorings
Next, add in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest brings an uplifting brightness to your cookies that balances perfectly with their sweetness.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! This helps maintain the tender texture we love in cookies.
Step 4: Fold in Lemon Curd
Gently fold in the lemon curd until evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds that luscious creaminess which makes these cookies feel indulgent yet still light.
Step 5: Scoop and Prepare for Baking
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets. Sprinkle a bit of granulated sugar on top of each cookie before baking; this creates that signature crunchy top reminiscent of crème brûlée.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them because every oven is different! Let them cool on the sheet before transferring them to wire racks.
And there you have it—your very own Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies – Tangy & Sweet Treat! Enjoy sharing these delightful bites with loved ones or savoring them all by yourself (I won’t tell!).
Pro Tips for Making Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies – Tangy & Sweet Treat
Baking these cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your results even further!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest make a world of difference in flavor. They provide that bright, tangy kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Chill the dough: After mixing your cookie dough, chilling it for at least 30 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. This step ensures they don’t spread too much and gives you that perfect chewy texture!
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Monitor the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. If you like them a bit softer, take them out when the edges are golden but the centers still look slightly underbaked. They’ll firm up as they cool.
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Experiment with citrus: While lemon is a star here, feel free to mix in other citrus zests like lime or orange for a unique twist. Each brings its own character to the cookie!
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Caramelize sugar carefully: When adding the sugar topping, use a kitchen torch for best results. If you don’t have one, broil them briefly in the oven while watching closely to prevent burning.
How to Serve Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies – Tangy & Sweet Treat
Presenting your Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to inspire your serving style.
Garnishes
- Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the lemon flavor.
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving enhances visual appeal and adds just another sweet layer to your treat.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between warm cookies and cold ice cream.
- Berry Compote: A side of mixed berry compote provides a fruity tartness that pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy cookies.
- Tea or Herbal Infusion: Offer a cup of chamomile or green tea to balance out sweetness with soothing flavors.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with coconut whipped cream for added richness without overpowering the lemon’s brightness.
With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only impress your guests but also indulge in one of life’s sweetest pleasures! Enjoy every bite of these Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies!

Make Ahead and Storage
These Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
- They will remain fresh for up to 5 days, but trust me, they won’t last that long!
Freezing
- To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- If you like your cookies warm, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious cookies.
Can I make Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Just be aware that it may slightly change the texture of your cookies.
How do I store Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!
Can I use store-bought lemon curd for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought lemon curd works perfectly if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s a quality brand to get that tangy flavor.
What makes these Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies special?
The combination of tangy lemon curd and the sweet crème brûlée flavor creates a unique treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find this recipe as delightful as I do! These Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies are not only easy to make but also an absolute joy to share with friends and family. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or serving them at your next gathering, they’re sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turn out!
Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies – Tangy & Sweet Treat
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies – a tangy and sweet treat that beautifully balances creamy lemon curd with a light, buttery cookie base. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. With their unique flavor profile and delightful texture, they will quickly become a favorite in your dessert lineup. Easy to make and versatile, these cookies can be prepared ahead of time and customized with various add-ins like chocolate chips or citrus zests. Enjoy every blissful bite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ cup lemon curd
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Gently fold in the lemon curd until evenly distributed.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets; sprinkle each with granulated sugar.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden around the edges. Allow cooling on baking sheets before transferring to wire racks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg