These Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups are the perfect combination of buttery cookie crust, tangy lemon filling, and fluffy whipped cream. The mini format makes them an irresistible treat at any gathering or special occasion.
With just the right balance of sweetness and tartness, each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. These cookie cups can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for parties, picnics, or holiday dinners. They’re a fun twist on a classic dessert, with a modern bite-sized presentation that is sure to impress.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 package sugar cookie dough
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2 teaspoons lemon zest
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
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1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
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2 large egg yolks
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
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Roll out the sugar cookie dough and cut it into small circles to fit the muffin tin.
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Press the dough into each muffin cup and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.
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Spoon the lemon mixture into the cooled cookie cups and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 minutes.
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Meanwhile, in a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.
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Once the lemon filling has set, remove from the oven and let cool completely.
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Top each cookie cup with a dollop of whipped cream and serve chilled.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
The Charm of Cookie Cups
Cookie cups are an innovative and delicious way to present classic desserts. They offer all the flavors of a full-sized pie or cake but in a smaller, more manageable portion. These treats are perfect for parties, picnics, or any occasion where you want to serve something sweet without the hassle of cutting and serving large slices. The idea behind cookie cups is simple: a sugar cookie dough forms the base, creating a sweet and soft “cup” that holds the filling. In the case of Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups, the base is complemented by a creamy, tangy lemon filling and topped with a fluffy, airy meringue.
A Modern Twist on a Classic Dessert
Lemon meringue pie has been around for centuries, with its origins dating back to the early 19th century. The combination of lemon custard and meringue became popular in the United States in the 1800s, thanks to its unique contrast of textures and flavors. Over time, this beloved dessert has been adapted in countless ways, from variations in the type of crust used to different twists on the meringue topping.
The Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups take the essence of this classic pie and simplify it into an easy-to-make treat. By using sugar cookie dough as the base, you eliminate the need for a traditional pie crust while still achieving that satisfying sweetness. The lemon filling is made with sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and fresh lemon juice, giving it a rich, smooth texture and tangy flavor. Finally, the meringue topping is a light, fluffy finish that mirrors the meringue found on a traditional lemon meringue pie.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. These cookie cups make a wonderful dessert at a summer barbecue or family gathering. Their mini size makes them perfect for individual servings, allowing guests to enjoy a sweet treat without the need for plates or utensils. They are also ideal for a potluck, holiday dinner, or any event where you want to offer a small, sweet bite.
For an elegant touch, serve the cookie cups on a beautiful platter with fresh mint leaves, lemon zest, or edible flowers for decoration. If you’re looking to add extra flair, drizzle the cookie cups with a bit of lemon syrup or glaze, or sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top for added texture and flavor.
Customizing Your Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups
One of the best things about Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups is how customizable they are. While the traditional lemon filling is a favorite, you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. For example, if you’re looking for a more decadent treat, consider using a richer pastry cream or adding a bit of cream cheese to the lemon filling for extra creaminess.
For those with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free sugar cookie dough. You can also make the recipe dairy-free by substituting the sweetened condensed milk with a non-dairy alternative, like coconut condensed milk. The meringue topping can also be made vegan by using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead of egg whites, making these cookie cups suitable for vegan diets.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups
To achieve the perfect Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Cookie Dough: Be sure to use a high-quality sugar cookie dough. You can use store-bought dough for convenience, but homemade dough often yields the best results. Make sure the dough is chilled before pressing it into the muffin tin to prevent it from spreading too much during baking.
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Filling Consistency: When making the lemon filling, be sure to whisk the ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If you want a thicker filling, you can add a small amount of cornstarch to the mixture before cooking it on the stove.
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Meringue Perfection: For the meringue topping, it’s important to beat the egg whites (or aquafaba, if vegan) until stiff peaks form. This will ensure that the meringue holds its shape when baked and gives you that fluffy, light texture that defines lemon meringue pie. Be careful not to over-beat the meringue, as this can cause it to become dry and crumbly.
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Baking Time: Don’t be afraid to bake the cookie cups a little longer if needed. The edges of the cookie cups should be golden brown, and the lemon filling should be just set. Be sure to watch the meringue closely while baking to prevent it from over-browning. If the meringue starts to get too dark, cover it lightly with aluminum foil to protect it.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups can be made ahead of time, which makes them a great choice for busy bakers. After baking the cookie cups, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to a week.
If you’re planning to make these cookie cups in advance, it’s best to assemble them (cookie cups with lemon filling) and store them without the meringue topping. The meringue is best when freshly made, so it’s a good idea to prepare and top the cookie cups with the meringue just before serving.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups
Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups offer the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The sugar cookie crust provides a satisfying, slightly crisp base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy lemon filling. The meringue topping adds a light, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. These bite-sized treats are incredibly satisfying, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together, Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Conclusion
Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups take the traditional flavors of lemon meringue pie and present them in a modern, fun, and bite-sized format. These treats are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize to suit any occasion or dietary need. With a buttery cookie crust, tangy lemon filling, and fluffy meringue topping, they offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a fan of classic desserts or looking for a new twist on an old favorite, Lemon Meringue Pie Cookie Cups are sure to become a hit in your recipe collection. So, the next time you’re craving lemon meringue pie, consider whipping up these mini delights for a fun and delicious alternative!