Name: Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: No Added Sugar
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter, softened; ½ cup Sugar Alternative; 2 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1 tbsp Lemon Juice; 1 tbsp Lemon Zest; 1 Egg Yolk; 2¼ cup Flour; ½ cup Butter; 1¾ cups Sugar Free Powdered Sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1 tsp Lemon Zest; 1½ tbsp Heavy Cream, additional as needed

If you’re ready to fall in love with a treat that tastes like a zesty ray of sunshine, these Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookies will absolutely win your heart! Imagine tender, buttery lemon cookies hugging a creamy, tangy filling, all without any added sugar. These cookies are seriously impressive, surprisingly easy to make, and perfect for anyone who wants to indulge a little lighter. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or sneaking one for a late-night snack, this cookie is pure citrus joy with every bite.

Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how just a handful of simple, good-quality ingredients can deliver such bright flavor and cloud-like texture! Each one here plays an important role, from lifting the lemony notes to building that melt-in-your-mouth creaminess in each Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookie.

Butter: Brings rich, savory flavor and that perfectly tender texture to both the cookies and the filling—be sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!
Sugar Alternative: Choose a granular sugar substitute that measures like sugar and is heat-stable; this is key for keeping the cookies sugar free yet sweet and satisfying.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth that balances the zing of lemon—you’ll use it in both the cookies and the filling.
Lemon Juice: Fresh juice is best for maximum brightness and genuine citrus flavor.
Lemon Zest: Intensifies the lemony aroma and gives the cookies their pretty confetti flecks.
Egg Yolk: Helps bind the dough, adds richness, and keeps the cookies perfectly tender.
Flour: All-purpose flour provides the classic cookie structure—measure carefully for the best results.
Sugar Free Powdered Sugar: Essential for a light, cloud-like filling texture—sift it for a lump-free result.
Heavy Cream: Used to adjust the filling to a perfectly spreadable consistency; add a splash at a time until just right.

How to Make Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Lemon Zest

Start by beating your softened butter until it’s ultra creamy and pale, which takes a couple of minutes. This step is what gives that meltingly delicate cookie bite! Once creamy, add your sugar alternative and the punchy lemon zest, mixing until totally blended in. The air you whip in here is the secret to that soft crumb.

Step 2: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Scrape down your bowl (don’t skip this!), then beat in the vanilla, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. These little additions really amp up the citrus flavor. Lastly, mix in the egg yolk, which binds everything together and gives your dough a lovely golden hue.

Step 3: Add the Flour

With your mixer on low, gradually add the flour to the bowl. The dough will look dry at first—don’t panic! Use a spatula to make sure no floury bits are stuck at the bottom. When it just comes together, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Transfer your dough to some plastic wrap, shaping it into a one-inch-thick disc. Chilling in the fridge for at least 15 minutes helps the cookies hold their shape and deepens the flavors. This quick nap makes all the difference—promise!

Step 5: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and get those baking sheets ready—either with parchment or a light mist of nonstick spray. This way, your cookies release easily and brown ever so slightly on the bottoms.

Step 6: Roll Out and Cut Cookies

On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about half an inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutter (classic circles or a cute shape!) and cut out cookies, lining them up on your prepped pans about an inch apart. They won’t spread much, but a little breathing room helps them bake evenly.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Pop the trays in the oven and bake until the edges are just setting and the bottoms look lightly golden—about 10 minutes. Give them a minute on the tray, then move to a cooling rack. Cooling completely is key before filling!

Step 8: Make the Lemon Cream Filling

Beat the remaining butter until creamy, then slowly blend in your powdered sugar-free sweetener. Scrape down your bowl, add the vanilla and lemon zest, then drizzle in heavy cream a tablespoon at a time. You’re aiming for a thick but smooth filling that’s easy to pipe or spread.

Step 9: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Pair up your cooled cookies by size, then pipe or gently spread about a tablespoon of filling onto the flat side of half. Press a matching cookie on top to make the perfect Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookie. Now, stand back and admire your handiwork!

How to Serve Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookies

Garnishes

For a truly dazzling finish, sprinkle a little extra lemon zest or a fine dusting of sugar-free powdered sweetener on top. You could also dip the edges in finely chopped pistachios or unsweetened coconut for a festive pop of color and texture.

Side Dishes

Complement these cookies with a side of fresh berries, a cup of tea, or even a little bowl of whipped cream. The brightness of the lemon is delicious with the mild sweetness of fruit, while tea or coffee helps cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookies on a pretty cake stand for an afternoon tea vibe, or tuck them into jars with a lemon ribbon for sweet little gifts. For parties, arrange them alongside other sugar free treats for an eye-catching and inclusive dessert display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once filled, store your Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for a little longer freshness. Keeping them cool preserves the creamy filling, especially in warmer weather.

Freezing

Both the unfilled cookies and the fully assembled sandwiches freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

If you like your cookies slightly warm, try letting them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes after coming out of the fridge or freezer. For a fresh-from-the-oven taste, you can heat unfilled cookies in a 300-degree oven for 2-3 minutes, but avoid warming filled sandwiches to keep the center creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different citrus besides lemon?

Absolutely! Lime or orange zest and juice make delightful variations, though it will change the flavor profile. The process is the same, so have fun experimenting.

What’s the best sugar alternative for these cookies?

Look for a sugar alternative that measures like sugar and is formulated for baking, such as erythritol or a monk fruit blend. This ensures your Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookies bake up perfectly and taste deliciously sweet.

Are these cookies suitable for a keto diet?

As written, they’re low in sugar thanks to the sugar substitute, but you’ll need to check that your sweetener and flour align with your keto needs. Swapping in almond or coconut flour with a little experimentation could work great!

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the lemon cream filling can be made a day or two ahead; just store it covered in the fridge. Before using, let it soften at room temperature and beat for a minute to restore its fluffy texture.

Why did my cookies turn out too dry?

This can happen if too much flour is added or if the dough is overbaked. Measure carefully and pull the cookies from the oven as soon as the bottoms are golden. The creamy filling will also help keep them tender!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a treat that’s bright, rich, and friendly for those avoiding added sugar, you truly have to try these Sugar Free Lemon Sandwich Cookies. They bring out the best of citrus and comfort in every single bite. I hope they make your dessert table—or just your afternoon—a whole lot sweeter!