lemon meringue cookies

1 Pinch 1 Photo
Whitby, ON
Updated on May 27, 2026

These lemon meringue cookies are soft, buttery, and bursting with bright citrus flavour. Topped with a light, fluffy toasted meringue, they combine the sweet and tangy taste of classic lemon meringue pie in an easy, handheld dessert. Perfect for spring, summer, parties, or whenever you want a refreshing homemade treat.

prep time 20 Min
cook time 12 Min
method Bake
yield 18 cookie(s)

Ingredients

  • LEMON COOKIES
  • 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • MERINGUE TOPPING
  • 2 egg whites
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

How To Make lemon meringue cookies

  • Step 1
    Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Step 2
    In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Step 3
    Mix in the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Step 4
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Step 5
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms.
  • Step 6
    Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Step 7
    Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Step 8
    Allow the cookies to cool completely while you prepare the meringue.
  • Step 9
    To make the meringue, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with a mixer until soft peaks form.
  • Step 10
    Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  • Step 11
    Spoon or pipe the meringue onto the cooled cookies.
  • Step 12
    Place the cookies back into the oven for 3–5 minutes until the meringue is lightly golden, or carefully toast the tops with a kitchen torch.
  • Step 13
    Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.
  • Step 14
    Optionally, decorate with extra lemon zest for a bright finishing touch.

Discover More

Category: Cookies
Method: Bake
Culture: American
Ingredient: Flour

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