Are you looking for a way to add a burst of sunshine to your next gathering or special occasion? Look no further than the bright and tangy world of lemon desserts! From classic pies and tarts to creative twists on old favorites, lemons bring a unique flavor and aroma that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new treat to try, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 irresistible best lemon dessert recipes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the sweet side of citrus, featuring a range of mouthwatering treats that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of lemons. From old-fashioned favorites like classic lemon meringue pie to innovative combinations like lemon blueberry cheesecake bars, there’s something for everyone in our collection.
Classic Lemon Meringue Pie
A timeless dessert that combines the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of meringue, this classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser. With its flaky crust and tangy filling, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice water
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1 cup meringue topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and zest.
4. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for 15 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the filling is set.
6. Prepare the meringue topping by beating egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Spread the meringue over the pie and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
These bars combine the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a creamy cheesecake base. Perfect for springtime or any time you need a pick-me-up.
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
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugars, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in lemon juice.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Top with blueberries.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zesty Lemon Pound Cake
Brighten up your day with a slice of this moist and flavorful lemon pound cake, infused with the zing of lemon zest and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) 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
– 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in lemon zest and juice.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Curd Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets are the perfect combination of sweet and sour, with a burst of citrus flavor from the lemon curd filling. They’re easy to make and look impressive on any dessert table.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg yolks
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, sugar, and softened butter until smooth. Stir in egg yolks.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the lemon curd onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins: A bright and citrusy treat perfect for springtime or anytime you need a pick-me-up!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Drizzle Loaf
This refreshing lemon loaf is perfect for springtime or any time you need a burst of citrus flavor. With its moist and flavorful interior, topped with a tangy lemon drizzle, this cake is sure to become a new favorite.
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 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and zest. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. While still warm, drizzle with lemon glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy lemon ricotta cookies. A perfect treat to satisfy your cravings, these chewy cookies are packed with the brightness of lemon zest and the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp lemon zest
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Lavender Shortbread
Brighten up your afternoon with a refreshing twist on classic shortbread. This Lemon Lavender Shortbread recipe combines the sweetness of butter and sugar with the tanginess of lemon zest and the subtle floral flavor of lavender.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice and zest; mix well.
3. Stir in lavender buds and flour until a dough forms. Roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, circles). Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Raspberry Layer Cake
Elevate your cake game with this refreshing lemon raspberry layer cake, perfect for springtime celebrations or any occasion that calls for a sweet surprise. Layers of moist lemon cake, tangy raspberry filling, and creamy frosting come together to create a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the cake batter according to package instructions. Divide evenly among prepared pans.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. Make the filling by pureeing raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a blender. Add softened butter; blend until smooth.
5. Assemble the cake by spreading filling between layers, then top with frosting made from powdered sugar, butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Coconut Macaroons
Brighten up your day with these citrusy and nutty macaroons, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert. With the help of lemon zest and juice, these coconut-based treats will transport you to a sunny state of mind.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large egg whites
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
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 powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Add lemon juice and zest; mix until smooth.
4. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Chiffon Pie
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing Lemon Chiffon Pie! This classic recipe combines the tanginess of lemon curd with the lightness of a chiffon pie, perfect for warm weather or any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Add melted butter and whisk until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
5. Gently fold beaten eggs into lemon mixture.
6. Pour filling into pie crust and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Basil Sorbet
This sorbet combines the brightness of lemon with the subtle sweetness and fragrance of basil, perfect for warm weather or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves. 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 bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids.
4. Whisk in honey until dissolved.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping time) + churning time with ice cream maker
Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful Lemon Olive Oil Cake, perfect for a weekend brunch or as a dessert to impress your friends. This recipe combines the sweetness of lemon zest with the subtle richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Mascarpone Tart
This tart is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with the brightness of lemon zest and the creaminess of mascarpone cheese. It’s an ideal dessert for springtime gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest. Spread mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
3. Dollop mascarpone cheese over the lemon mixture, spreading it slightly to cover.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and filling is set.
5. Allow tart to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Ginger Crinkle Cookies
These citrusy cookies are perfect for brightening up your day with their vibrant lemon flavor and crinkly surface. With the warmth of ginger adding depth to each bite, you’ll be hooked from the first crunchy snap.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and ginger. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in lemon juice and egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, then roll each ball in confectioners’ sugar to coat.
6. Place coated balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Panna Cotta
This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather or any occasion where a light and airy treat is desired. Lemon panna cotta’s creamy texture and citrusy flavor make it a great way to end a meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
3. Whisk in the lemon juice and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar and a slice of lemon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lemon Almond Biscotti
These chewy-on-the-inside, crunchy-on-the-outside biscotti are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the nutty flavor of almonds. Perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, they’re a delightful addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
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, almonds, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide dough into 2 logs. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven; let cool for 10 minutes. Slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
8. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Bake biscotti slices for an additional 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lemon Honey Madeleines
These delicate French cakes are infused with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of honey, making them a perfect sweet treat for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can enjoy these bite-sized delights in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Unsalted butter, melted (for greasing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a madeleine pan with melted butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, honey, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared madeleine pan and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Blackberry Galette
This Lemon Blackberry Galette is a refreshing twist on the classic fruit galette, combining the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of blackberries. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1 cup fresh blackberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, juice, sugar, honey, and salt.
4. Arrange blackberries in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
5. Brush the edges of the pastry with some of the lemon mixture.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Cream Cheese Frosted Cupcakes
Brighten up your day with these refreshing lemon cupcakes topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for springtime celebrations or as a pick-me-up anytime!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cream cheese frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add lemon juice, vanilla extract, and dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Beat until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined. Add vanilla extract.
Summary
Get ready to brighten up your day with these irresistible lemon desserts! From classic recipes like Lemon Meringue Pie and Lemon Pound Cake, to creative twists like Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars and Lemon Raspberry Layer Cake, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat or a refreshing dessert, these 20 delicious lemon recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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