Lemon Cheese Fill-Ups
Lemon Cheese Fill-Ups are tangy, creamy treats with bright lemon flavor, perfect for brunches or tea parties, combining rich cheese and citrus zest for a delightful bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine butter, softened cream cheese, confectioners sugar, flour, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon lemon peel in a mixing bowl.
- Mix at low speed until the dough forms.
- Cover and chill for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter and cream cheese are well softened before mixing. If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, bottled juice can work, but fresh is preferable for flavor. You can substitute the dry cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier filling. Chill the dough longer if it's too soft to handle. Consider making Do-It-Yourself Ice Cream Sandwiches with the leftover dough for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful treats with a dusting of additional confectioners sugar for a touch of elegance. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making a perfect afternoon snack. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a Raspberry Refresher to balance the richness of the filling.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lemon Cheese Fill-Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain their texture, making them taste freshly baked.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Cheese Fill-Ups contains roughly 1025 calories, with 28g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1137mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, you can substitute dry cottage cheese with ricotta or even cream cheese for a smoother filling. Just be aware that different cheeses will slightly alter the flavor and texture, so adjust sugar levels accordingly.
How can I make these more lemony?
To enhance the lemon flavor, you can increase the amount of grated lemon peel and lemon juice by a teaspoon or two. Adding a bit of lemon zest to the filling can also intensify the citrusy notes, making them even more refreshing.
Can I freeze the dough or the filled cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling out. Baked cookies can also be frozen; just ensure they are cooled completely and stored in an airtight container.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).