My neighbor brought some by as a gift, and I instantly fell in love with them

Polish Lemon Sandwich Tea Cookies, also known as "ciastka herbaciane", are delightful and delicate treats that hold a special place in Polish cuisine. These dainty cookies have a buttery texture with a burst of tangy lemon flavor, making them the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea. With their origins rooted in the traditional Polish tea culture, these cookies have been enjoyed for generations and continue to be a cherished part of Polish culinary heritage.

They are best served with a hot cup of tea or coffee, as their light and zesty flavor perfectly complements the soothing warmth of a beverage. To create a delightful tea-time experience, consider serving these cookies alongside a variety of other small treats, such as fruit slices, biscotti, or homemade preserves. The cookies can also be enjoyed on their own as a sweet snack throughout the day.

Ingredients:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup superfine sugar
1 egg yolk, gently beaten, at room temperature
1 cup softened unsalted butter
2 teaspoons lemon zest
2 teaspoons lemon juice

For the filling:
4 cups powdered sugar, plus additional for garnish
1/3 cup softened unsalted butter (1/3 cup)
4 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
Optional: 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions:

1. Make Dough: Cream sugar and softened butter. Add yolk, lemon juice, zest. Mix. Gradually add flour. Chill 30 min.

2. Shape and Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut shapes, bake 10-12 min. Cool on racks.

3. Prepare Filling: Beat softened butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, lemon juice, zest. Mix. Add milk if needed for consistency, 1 tablespoon at a time.

4. Assemble Cookies: Spread filling on bottom of cookie. Top with another cookie to make a sandwich. Dust with powdered sugar.

Serve: Once filling sets, cookies are ready to enjoy.

Whether as a charming addition to your afternoon tea, a sweet treat for friends, or simply a delightful snack, Polish Lemon Sandwich Tea Cookies are sure to bring joy with their delicate flavors and beautiful presentation.