Gourmet Lemon Crème Brûlée Cookies

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Craving a dessert that combines the delicate crisp of crème brûlée with the bright zing of lemon? These Gourmet Lemon Crème Brûlée Cookies are here to thrill your taste buds. With a buttery cookie base, luscious lemon curd center, and caramelized sugar top, every bite offers a luxurious mix of textures—crisp, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth softness.

Imagine hosting a brunch or gifting a homemade treat that stops people mid-bite with a delighted gasp. These cookies do exactly that. They’re not just lemon cookies; they’re an elevated dessert that feels fancy without being fussy, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a quiet afternoon.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Gourmet Lemon Crème Brûlée Cookies, having the right tools ensures success:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients separately, ensuring smooth, lump-free dough.
• Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: Helps achieve a fluffy, aerated butter-sugar mixture, crucial for the cookie texture.
• Piping Bag or Spoon: To neatly fill the cookie centers with lemon curd.
• Kitchen Torch: This is the magic-maker! It caramelizes the sugar topping, creating that signature crackly crème brûlée layer.
• Baking Sheet and Parchment Paper: Guarantees even baking and easy cleanup.

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Ingredients for the Gourmet Lemon Crème Brûlée Cookies

• All-purpose Flour: Provides the structure and softness for the cookies.
• Unsalted Butter: Delivers rich, creamy flavor and tender texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and becomes the caramelized top.
• Eggs: Bind the dough and add richness.
• Lemon Zest: Infuses bright, aromatic citrus notes throughout the cookie.
• Lemon Curd: The creamy, tangy center that mimics the crème part of crème brûlée.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out flavors with subtle warmth.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the lemon’s brightness.
• Baking Powder: Ensures light, slightly airy cookies.

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How To Make the Gourmet Lemon Crème Brûlée Cookies

Step 1: Make the Dough

Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well, then mix in vanilla and lemon zest. Whisk dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then gradually fold into wet mixture until combined.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Scoop dough onto a lined baking sheet, creating shallow wells in the center. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft. Cool completely.

Step 3: Fill with Lemon Curd

Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each cookie center with lemon curd, creating a smooth, generous pool.

Step 4: Caramelize the Sugar

Sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the curd. With a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until deep golden and glassy. Let set a minute or two before serving.

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How to Serve and Store These Cookies

Serve these Gourmet Lemon Crème Brûlée Cookies at room temperature to enjoy the perfect balance of creamy filling and crisp caramelized top. They pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or a glass of chilled dessert wine. For an extra elegant touch, dust the plate with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh berries.

To store, place the cookies in a single layer in an airtight container. They keep well at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, but note the caramelized tops may soften over time. If desired, re-torch the sugar just before serving to refresh the crisp layer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the caramelized top crisp?

Caramelize just before serving, or if made ahead, give a quick re-torch to revive the crackly layer.

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Absolutely! A high-quality jarred lemon curd works beautifully and saves time.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

You can broil the sugar-topped cookies briefly, but watch carefully to avoid overheating the cookie base.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour; the texture may be slightly more delicate but still delicious.

How long do they stay fresh?

Best eaten within 2 days for optimal texture, but they can last up to 4 days in the fridge.

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Want More Lemon Dessert Ideas?

If you’re enchanted by these Gourmet Lemon Crème Brûlée Cookies, you might also fall for the Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars, where zesty swirls meet creamy decadence. Or try the No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies for a fruity, fuss-free treat.

For something a bit different, the Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake delivers rich, nutty flavors that balance beautifully with citrus notes. And don’t miss the Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for a spiced, indulgent dessert.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your dessert boards for easy access. Just click the Pin button!

If you make these cookies, I’d love to hear how they turned out. Did you go for homemade lemon curd or store-bought? Did you torch or broil? Leave a comment below—I’m always curious to see how you make these treats your own.

For even more delicious creations, check out my daily recipe inspirations on Pinterest: LadyPlate Pinterest.

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