Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies

A Decadent Treat with a Crunchy Caramelized Top

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines rich flavors and textures, these Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies are the perfect choice. With a buttery cookie base, a luscious homemade lemon curd filling, and a crisp caramelized sugar topping, these cookies are an elegant fusion of classic crème brûlée and melt-in-your-mouth thumbprint cookies.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

These cookies are a dream come true for lemon lovers and anyone who enjoys a balance of sweet and tart flavors. The homemade lemon curd adds a silky, tangy contrast to the crisp, caramelized sugar layer on top. Plus, the brûlée effect creates a satisfying crunch that elevates these cookies from simple to spectacular.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, need a unique dessert for a special occasion, or just want to indulge in something extraordinary, these cookies fit the bill. They’re impressive yet simple enough for home bakers to tackle with ease!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies:

  • All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies.
  • Baking powder – Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft texture.
  • Salt – Enhances flavor.
  • Butter, softened – Adds richness and tenderness.
  • Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps with browning.
  • Egg yolk – Adds richness and structure.
  • Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
  • Lemon zest – Infuses a bright citrus note.

For the Lemon Curd:

  • Egg yolks – Thickens the curd and adds richness.
  • Granulated sugar – Balances the tartness of the lemon juice.
  • Lemon juice (freshly squeezed) – Provides a fresh and vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Butter – Gives the curd a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Lemon zest – Intensifies the lemony taste.

For the Brûlée Topping:

  • Granulated sugar – Forms the crisp, caramelized layer on top.
  • Kitchen torch – Essential for achieving the classic brûlée effect.

How to Make Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies

1. Prepare the Lemon Curd:

  1. In a saucepan over low heat, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and lemon juice.
  2. Cook while stirring continuously until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
  3. Remove from heat and stir in butter and lemon zest.
  4. Let cool, then refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Make the Cookies:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add egg yolk, vanilla, and lemon zest, mixing well.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to form a soft dough.
  6. Roll dough into small balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in each cookie.

3. Bake and Fill:

  1. Bake cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  2. Let cookies cool slightly, then spoon a small amount of lemon curd into each indentation.

4. Caramelize the Top:

  1. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the lemon curd filling.
  2. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
  3. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips and Variations

  • Make it ahead: Prepare the lemon curd up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
  • No kitchen torch? Place cookies under the oven broiler for a few seconds to caramelize the sugar, watching closely to prevent burning.
  • Citrus swap: Try substituting orange or lime zest and juice for a different citrus twist.
  • Extra crunch: Sprinkle a little sea salt over the brûlée topping for a salted caramel effect.

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: If keeping for longer, store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze unfilled cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and add lemon curd before serving.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Kitchen torch

FAQs

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought lemon curd works as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

How do I get the perfect caramelized topping?

Use a kitchen torch in a slow, circular motion to evenly melt the sugar. If using a broiler, keep a close eye on the cookies to prevent burning.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

You can place the cookies under the broiler for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month before baking.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

The recipe as written is not gluten-free, but you can substitute 1:1 gluten-free flour for an alternative version.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a cup of Earl Grey tea, chamomile tea, or a glass of dessert wine for an elevated experience. They also pair beautifully with vanilla or raspberry sorbet for a refreshing contrast.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

These Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée Cookies are an irresistible fusion of buttery cookies, tangy lemon curd, and a crunchy caramelized sugar topping. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, they’re sure to impress.

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