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Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies

Close-up of a freshly baked Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookie dusted generously with powdered sugar.

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A recipe for buttery shortbread cookies with a central well filled with tart lemon curd.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup prepared lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until just combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced 2 inches apart.
  6. Use your thumb or the back of a small measuring spoon to gently press a deep indentation into the center of each dough ball, creating a well for the filling.
  7. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain pale.
  8. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once the cookies are completely cool, carefully spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of lemon curd into each indentation.
  10. If desired, dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • For the best texture, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling and indenting.
  • If using homemade lemon curd, make sure it is fully chilled before filling the cookies.
  • Store the filled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to one week.

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