Vegan Lemon Curd Shortbread Cookies

Name: Vegan Lemon Curd Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: ⅓ cup canned coconut milk; ⅓ cup organic cane sugar; ¼ cup lemon juice (about 1 lemon); Zest from 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon vegan butter; Pinch of turmeric (optional); 1 cup vegan butter (softened); ⅔ cup organic powdered sugar + more for dusting; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose baking flour + more for dusting; ¼ teaspoon finely ground salt

Jack

Update : February 14, 2026

Vegan lemon curd shortbread cookies on a plate with lemon slices

Why Make This Recipe

Vegan Lemon Curd Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat for everyone, whether you follow a vegan diet or not. These cookies offer a perfect blend of creamy lemon curd and buttery shortbread that melts in your mouth. Not only are they tasty, but they also look beautiful on any dessert platter. Making them at home ensures you know exactly what goes into your cookies, keeping them as healthy as possible.

How to Make Vegan Lemon Curd Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients

⅓ cup canned coconut milk (reduced fat or full fat both work)
⅓ cup organic cane sugar
¼ cup lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
Zest from 1 lemon
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon vegan butter
Pinch of turmeric for color (optional)
1 cup vegan butter (softened)
⅔ cup organic powdered sugar + more for dusting
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups gluten-free all-purpose baking flour + more for dusting (measure for measure)
¼ teaspoon finely ground salt

Directions

Lemon Curd:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix the coconut milk, organic cane sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, cornstarch, vegan butter, and turmeric if using.
Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool. You can transfer it to a bowl or container to speed up the cooling process.

Shortbread Cookies:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the vanilla extract and mix well.
Gradually mix in the gluten-free flour, salt, and continue mixing until a dough forms.
On a floured surface, roll the dough into small balls and then flatten them slightly. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before adding the lemon curd.
Spread a generous amount of the cooled lemon curd on top of each cookie.

How to Serve Vegan Lemon Curd Shortbread Cookies

These cookies are perfect for any occasion! Serve them with tea, coffee, or as a refreshing dessert after a meal. They are also great for sharing at gatherings, parties, or picnics. Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful touch.

How to Store Vegan Lemon Curd Shortbread Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can place them in the fridge for up to two weeks. For best results, keep the lemon curd separate until you’re ready to serve the cookies.

Tips to Make Vegan Lemon Curd Shortbread Cookies

Make sure to let the lemon curd cool completely before spreading it on the cookies. This will help prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.
If you prefer a thicker lemon curd, you can add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch.
To add a little crunch, consider adding some finely chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips to the cookie dough.

Variation

You can switch up the flavors by using orange juice and zest instead of lemon for a refreshing orange curd. This will give a slightly different taste while keeping the cookie texture the same.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of dairy-free milk for the lemon curd?

Yes! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to control the sweetness of the curd.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! You can freeze the shortbread cookies without the lemon curd. Wrap them well in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw before adding the lemon curd when ready to enjoy.