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Close-up of Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies showing a glossy dollop of curd in each indent, featured in our Cookie Recipes Thumbprint collection for the ultimate Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies Recipe.

Easy Lemon Thumbprint Cookies


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Description

Tender, buttery rounds filled with bright, tangy lemon curd—these cookies strike the perfect harmony between sweet and sour. They’re quick to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
  • ½ cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)


Instructions

  1. Prep & Heat
    • Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Cream the Base
    • In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until pale and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
    • Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest until evenly mixed.
  3. Form the Dough
    • Sprinkle in the flour and salt, mixing on low until the dough just comes together. It should feel soft but not sticky.
  4. Shape the Cookies
    • Roll portions of dough into 1-inch spheres and arrange them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheet.
    • Use your thumb (or the back of a teaspoon) to gently press a small well into the center of each ball.
  5. Fill & Bake
    • Drop about ½ teaspoon of lemon curd into each indentation.
    • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden hue.
  6. Cool
    • Transfer cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before serving or storing.

Notes

Storage & Swaps

  • Keep fresh: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Flavor twists: Swap the lemon curd for other fruit curds or your favorite jam to change up the taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts