Looking for a bright, refreshing treat that delivers bold lemon flavor in every bite? These Lemon Cookie Sandwiches are what your dessert dreams are made of.
Let’s dive into a recipe that’s quick to bake, easy to love, and perfect for lemon lovers like you.
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Cookie Sandwiches
- Soft, chewy texture with a crisp edge
- Bursting with real lemon flavor
- Filled with tangy lemon cream cheese buttercream
- Perfect for spring, summer, or anytime you crave citrus
- Ready in just about 20 minutes
Lemon Cookie Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Lemon Cookies:
- 16 tablespoons (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 small lemons
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (divided)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- Zest of ½ lemon
- Splash of lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon)
- 3 ½ to 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter, sugar, and lemon zest until smooth and fluffy.
- Add in the egg, 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and beat just until incorporated.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
- Using a small or medium cookie scoop, roll dough into balls.
- Place on the baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 5 minutes.
- Remove from oven and gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or flat measuring cup.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Optional: Use a round cookie cutter while still warm for perfectly shaped cookies.
- Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
Making the Lemon Cream Cheese Buttercream
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add in the lemon zest and remaining lemon juice.
- Slowly incorporate powdered sugar, starting with 3 ½ cups.
- Add heavy cream and beat until light and fluffy.
- Adjust with extra sugar or lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.
Assemble the Cookie Sandwiches
- Once cookies are completely cooled, flip half of them upside down.
- Pipe or spoon a generous layer of buttercream onto the bottoms.
- Top with another cookie to create a sandwich.
- Gently press to secure.
Optional Touch: Lemon Glaze Drizzle
Want to take it up a notch?
Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with a teaspoon of lemon juice. Drizzle over the top for an extra zing and gloss.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days. Let them sit at room temp for 10 minutes before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze unassembled cookies and buttercream separately. Assemble when ready to serve.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest—bottled juice won’t deliver the same punch.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough—it helps prevent spreading.
- Measure flour correctly—too much can make cookies dense. Spoon and level it, don’t scoop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh juice gives a brighter, more natural flavor.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake and cool cookies, then refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to fill.
How do I make them gluten-free?
Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Can I add food coloring to the filling?
Yes. A drop of yellow gel food coloring will enhance the look without altering flavor.
If you’re looking for a cookie that’s light, sweet, tangy, and totally satisfying, Lemon Cookie Sandwiches are your go-to. Whether you’re making them for a gathering, a bake sale, or just to treat yourself—you’ll love how easy they are to make and how amazing they taste.
Ready to impress your friends (and yourself) with homemade lemon cookie sandwiches?
Grab those lemons and get baking.
