Soft, buttery cookies with a bright little surprise inside

If you love lemon desserts even a little bit, I need you to trust me on this one.

These lemon poppyseed cookies look sweet and innocent on the outside - soft, buttery, lightly speckled with poppyseeds but then you take a bite and hit that bright, silky lemon curd center, and suddenly you’re fully committed.

They’re not overly sweet. They’re not heavy. They’re just the perfect balance of buttery cookie and citrusy pop. The kind of cookie that feels bakery-level but is actually very doable at home.

This is one of those recipes that feels special without being fussy. You don’t need fancy tools. You don’t need perfect shaping. And you definitely don’t need an excuse to make them.

Let’s get into it.

Why Lemon + Poppyseed Just Works

There’s something about lemon and poppyseed that feels nostalgic and fresh at the same time. It’s bright but comforting. Familiar, yet still exciting.

The poppyseeds add a subtle crunch and nuttiness, while the lemon brings that clean, sunny flavor that keeps these cookies from feeling heavy or overly rich.

And when you add lemon curd to the center? That’s when things cross into next-level territory.

The curd stays soft and creamy, creating this little pocket of citrus that melts into the cookie as it bakes. It’s the kind of detail that makes people ask, “Did you buy these?”

Ingredients

For the Lemon Curd Filling:

lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)

For the Lemon Poppyseed Cookie Dough:

How to Make Lemon Poppyseed Cookies with Lemon Curd Centers

Step 1: Prep the Lemon Curd

If your lemon curd is very soft, spoon small dollops (about 1 teaspoon each) onto a parchment-lined plate and freeze for 20–30 minutes.

This makes stuffing the cookies much easier and keeps the curd from leaking during baking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy - about 2–3 minutes.

Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated.

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla. At this point, your kitchen should already smell amazing.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, poppyseeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix - we want soft cookies.

Step 4: Fill the Cookies

Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand.

Place a frozen lemon curd dollop in the center, then gently wrap the dough around it, sealing well.

Roll lightly into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still look soft.

Do not overbake - the cookies will continue to set as they cool.

Let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

What These Cookies Are Like

Let’s talk texture because it matters.

These cookies are:

Soft and tender
Lightly chewy around the edges
Buttery without being greasy
Filled with a smooth, tangy center

They’re best slightly warm, but they’re also incredible at room temperature. And yes - they freeze beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Curd–Filled Cookies

Freeze the lemon curd - it makes everything easier
Seal the dough well to avoid leaks
Don’t overbake
Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor

If a little curd peeks out while baking, that’s okay - it just makes them look extra tempting.

Storage & Freezing

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months

To reheat, microwave for a few seconds or let thaw at room temperature.

Make Them Extra Special

Want to take these over the top?

Try:

Drizzling with a simple lemon glaze
Dusting lightly with powdered sugar
Rolling the dough in sugar before baking
Adding a little extra lemon zest on top

They’re already amazing but these little touches make them bakery-worthy.

Final Thoughts

These lemon poppyseed cookies with lemon curd centers are the kind of treat that feels joyful. Bright. A little indulgent. Exactly what a good cookie should be.

They’re perfect for spring, summer, baby showers, brunch tables, or just because you felt like baking something special on a random afternoon.

If you love lemon desserts, this recipe is a must.

And if you make them? I hope you enjoy every single bite - especially that first one when you hit the lemon curd center.

Looking for more dessert recipes? Try my popular recipes below:

Lemon Poppyseed Cookies with Lemon Curd