Are you ready to brighten up your sweet tooth with a burst of citrusy flavor? Look no further! Lemons are one of the most versatile and refreshing fruits out there, and when it comes to desserts, they can add a whole new level of zing. In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouth-watering lemon dessert recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
From classic treats like lemon meringue pie and lemon bars, to more unique creations like lemon lavender pound cake and lemon coconut macaroons, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a fan of bright citrus flavors or prefer a more subtle hint of lemon, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: A refreshing twist on classic cheesecake bars, these sweet and tangy treats combine the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust. Top with blueberries and drizzle with lemon juice.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Meringue Pie
Brighten up your day with this classic dessert that combines the tanginess of lemon curd with the sweetness of a fluffy meringue topping. This recipe yields one 9-inch pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg whites
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, flour, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
7. Spread the meringue topping over the cooled pie filling.
8. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-27 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the brightness of lemon zest with the crunch of poppy seeds, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With its lovely yellow hue and subtle citrus flavor, this cake is sure to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust
A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the brightness of lemon curd with the buttery richness of shortbread crust, perfect for springtime gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Lemon Curd:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9-inch tart pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Shortbread Crust: Whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms. Press into prepared tart pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
3. Prepare the Lemon Curd: In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, and granulated sugar. Melt butter and add to mixture, whisking until smooth.
4. Pour Lemon Curd over Shortbread Crust and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Cookies
These tender and flavorful cookies are infused with the sweetness of lemon and the creaminess of ricotta, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Add ricotta cheese and mix until combined.
4. Add lemon juice and zest (if using) to the wet ingredients and stir.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies
These buttery cookies are filled with a burst of citrusy lemon curd, making them perfect for a bright and cheerful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and lemon juice.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Fill each indentation with about 1/4 tsp lemon curd.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons get a burst of flavor from fresh lemon zest and a hint of coconut, making them the perfect sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add lemon juice and zest; gently fold until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to egg mixture; stir until smooth.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Lavender Pound Cake
This moist and flavorful pound cake combines the brightness of lemon zest with the subtle sweetness of lavender, perfect for a springtime dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together butter, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Stir in milk and lavender buds.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Lemon Raspberry Trifle
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing Lemon Raspberry Trifle, perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice)
– 6-8 ladyfingers
– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, and raspberries.
3. Cut ladyfingers in half and dip each half into the whipped cream mixture.
4. Begin assembling the trifle by spreading a layer of vanilla yogurt on the bottom of a serving dish. Arrange 4-6 ladyfinger halves on top.
5. Repeat step 4 two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.
6. Top with fresh raspberries and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Lemon Sorbet with Mint
Cool down on a warm day with this revitalizing lemon sorbet infused with the bright, herbaceous flavor of mint. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for hot summer nights or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tsp kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, and 1 cup of the water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1 cup of water, chopped mint leaves, and kosher salt. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until cold, then freeze according to your sorbet maker’s instructions or pour into an ice cream maker and churn.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 2 quarts of sorbet
Enjoy your refreshing Lemon Sorbet with Mint!
Lemon Olive Oil Cake
This refreshing cake is perfect for springtime gatherings or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. The combination of lemon zest, juice, and olive oil creates a moist and flavorful dessert that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Cream Puffs
These citrusy cream puffs are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, topped with a lightly sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest. They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Whipped cream and lemon zest, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pipe onto prepared baking sheet in desired shape. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow puffs to cool completely before topping with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Chiffon Pie
This classic dessert is a perfect blend of citrusy flavor and airy texture, making it a refreshing treat for any occasion. With its simple preparation and minimal ingredients, this Lemon Chiffon Pie is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large egg whites
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, flour, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip milk and butter until smooth.
4. Fold the whipped mixture into the egg yolk mixture until well combined.
5. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
6. Fold the egg whites into the pie filling until no white streaks remain.
7. Pour the mixture into an unbaked pie crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Honey Madeleines
These delicate French cakes are infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of lemon and honey, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these charming madeleines that are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter and flour a madeleine mold.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and eggs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Add honey and whisk until combined.
6. Pour batter into the prepared mold and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Gingerbread Cookies
Lemon Gingerbread Cookies Recipe
Brighten up your holiday season with these refreshing lemon gingerbread cookies. The perfect combination of citrusy zing and warm spices will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add chopped crystallized ginger and mix well.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon juice.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Lemon Almond Biscotti
Elevate your cookie game with these crunchy and flavorful Lemon Almond Biscotti, perfect for dipping in coffee or tea. This Italian-inspired treat combines the brightness of lemon zest with the nutty sweetness of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon zest, and almonds.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into two portions. Shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Blackberry Galette
This Lemon Blackberry Galette is a refreshing twist on the classic fruit tart, featuring a flaky crust, tangy lemon filling, and sweet blackberries. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a unique dessert to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup fresh blackberries
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and lemon juice.
3. Arrange blackberries on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Pistachio Baklava
This refreshing take on traditional baklava combines the sweetness of honey and the crunch of pistachios with the brightness of lemon. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together sugar, pistachios, lemon juice, and honey until well combined.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the sugar mixture, leaving a small border around each layer.
5. Brush top layer with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon and salt.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 18 zesty lemon dessert recipes! From classic treats like Lemon Meringue Pie and Lemon Tart with Shortbread Crust, to creative combinations like Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars and Lemon Raspberry Trifle, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Whether you prefer bright and citrusy or subtle and creamy, these refreshing desserts are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a range of textures and flavors, you’ll find the perfect recipe to add a burst of sunshine to your dessert menu.
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