A delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookie bursting with bright lemon flavor. These airy, crisp treats are the perfect light dessert or party finger food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and citrusy thanks to fresh lemon flavor
Light and crisp texture with a melt-in-your-mouth quality
Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
Naturally gluten-free
Elegant and perfect for gifting or gatherings
Customizable with different variations
Impressive appearance with minimal effort
Low-fat dessert option
No special equipment required
Stores well and can be made ahead

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 large egg whites (room temperature)
½ tsp cream of tartar
¼ tsp salt
1 cup granulated sugar (processed into fine sugar if possible)
½ to 1 tsp lemon extract (or fresh lemon juice with zest)

directions

Preheat the oven to 225°F (110°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy.
Add the cream of tartar and salt, then continue beating until soft peaks form.
Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Gently fold in lemon extract or juice and zest, being careful not to deflate the meringue.
Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round or star tip and pipe small mounds onto the baking sheets.
Bake for 1½ to 2 hours or until the cookies are dry to the touch and lift easily off the parchment.
Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly ajar, and let the cookies cool inside for 1 to 2 hours.
Once completely cool, transfer the cookies to an airtight container.

Servings and timing

Yield: Approximately 40 small cookies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 1½ to 2 hours
Cooling time: 1 to 2 hours
Total time: About 3½ to 4 hours

Variations

Add finely grated lemon zest for more depth of flavor
Use yellow food coloring for a vibrant lemony look
Fold in lemon-flavored gelatin powder for added flavor and color
Drizzle with white chocolate after baking for an elegant touch
Substitute with other citrus flavors like lime or orange for a twist

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week
For longer storage, freeze in a single layer in an airtight container for up to three months
To re-crisp softened cookies, bake at 225°F (110°C) for 5–7 minutes, then cool completely

FAQs

What if my meringue is soft instead of crisp?

This often happens due to high humidity or underbaking. Make sure to dry the cookies thoroughly in the oven.

Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of extract?

Yes, but use it sparingly to avoid deflating the meringue. Adding zest helps intensify the lemon flavor.

Why add cream of tartar?

It helps stabilize the egg whites, making it easier to achieve and maintain stiff peaks.

How do I prevent the cookies from cracking?

Let them cool gradually by turning off the oven and allowing them to sit inside with the door ajar.

Can I pipe different shapes?

Yes, use star or round tips for decorative patterns, or simply spoon small mounds onto the tray.

How do I use gelatin for flavor?

Some recipes use lemon-flavored gelatin powder for a stronger taste and color. Add it during the whipping process.

Why should egg whites be at room temperature?

Room-temperature egg whites whip more easily and achieve greater volume than cold ones.

Can I freeze lemon meringue cookies?

Yes, store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, they are naturally gluten-free since they contain no flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

What can I do with leftover egg yolks?

Use them for lemon curd, custard, ice cream, or rich baked goods like pound cake or brioche.

Conclusion

Lemon meringue cookies are an elegant, crisp, and citrusy treat perfect for any occasion. While they require some patience in baking and cooling, the result is a refined cookie with a light texture and vibrant flavor. Whether served at a tea party or packaged as a homemade gift, these cookies are sure to impress.