WW Lemon Bar Cookie Cups Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Bar Cookie Cups are a delightful and refreshing twist on traditional lemon bars, encapsulating the bright, zesty flavor of lemon in a convenient, bite-sized treat. Perfect for those following a Weight Watchers (WW) program, these cookie cups not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also align with a balanced lifestyle. With a buttery cookie base and a tangy lemon filling, they’re a wonderful dessert for gatherings or simply as a treat for yourself.

In this comprehensive recipe, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making these delicious cookie cups, including detailed instructions, ingredient measurements, nutritional information, and helpful tips to ensure your baking success. Let’s dive into the world of Lemon Bar Cookie Cups!

Ingredients

For the Cookie Cups:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Filling:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 2-3 lemons)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Equipment Needed

  • Muffin tin (12-cup capacity)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Lemon juicer or reamer
  • Zester
  • Cooling rack

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures an even baking process, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture for both the cookie cups and the lemon filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Next, lightly grease your muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or use paper liners. This will help the cookie cups release easily once baked, ensuring that they maintain their shape and presentation.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—approximately 3-4 minutes. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in a tender texture.

Once fluffy, add the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Take care not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookie cups.

Step 4: Form the Cookie Cups

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, divide the dough evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each cup about halfway. Gently press the dough down to create a flat base, ensuring it extends slightly up the sides to hold the lemon filling.

Step 5: Bake the Cookie Cups

Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Watch them closely to prevent overbaking, as a perfectly baked cup should remain soft inside.

Step 6: Prepare the Lemon Filling

While the cookie cups are baking, prepare the lemon filling. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. This mixture will help to prevent lumps in the filling.

Next, add 4 large eggs, whisking one at a time until fully integrated. Slowly stir in the 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice and zest of 1 lemon, mixing until the filling is smooth and well combined.

Step 7: Fill the Cookie Cups

Once the cookie cups have finished baking, carefully remove them from the oven. Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour the lemon filling into each cookie cup, filling them about three-quarters full to allow the filling to rise as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake Again

Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes. The filling should be set around the edges but may still have a slight jiggle in the center—this is normal and will firm up as it cools.

Step 9: Cool the Cookie Cups

After baking, remove the muffin tin from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool for 10-15 minutes. This allows the cookie cups to set and makes them easier to remove from the tin.

Step 10: Remove and Cool Completely

Once they are cool enough to handle, gently run a knife around the edges of each cookie cup to loosen them. Carefully lift them out of the muffin tin and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Once the cookie cups are completely cool, lightly dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch. These treats can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 cookie cup

  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 2g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

For those following the Weight Watchers program, each Lemon Bar Cookie Cup is approximately 4 SmartPoints. This makes them a manageable indulgence that fits well into a balanced diet.

Helpful Tips for Success

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lemons for the best flavor. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest significantly enhance the overall taste of the filling.
  2. Avoid Overbaking: To achieve a creamy lemon filling, avoid overbaking. The filling should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven; it will firm up as it cools.
  3. Storage Recommendations: Store any leftover cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within three days to maintain their texture and flavor.
  4. Customizing Flavors: Experiment with different citrus fruits! Lime or orange can be substituted for lemon for a unique twist on this recipe.
  5. Presentation Ideas: For an extra touch, consider adding a small dollop of whipped cream or a thin slice of lemon on top before serving.

Conclusion

Lemon Bar Cookie Cups are a delightful, refreshing dessert that brings the classic flavors of lemon bars into a convenient, bite-sized form. Whether enjoyed at a party, a family gathering, or as a personal treat, these cookie cups offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, satisfying both your cravings and your commitment to healthy eating.

By following this detailed recipe, you can create an irresistible batch of cookie cups that are sure to become a favorite among friends and family. Enjoy the baking process, and relish the delicious results of your efforts!