Lemon Daisy Shortbread Cookies (made with sourdough discard)

A Bright Little Cookie That Feels Like Spring
Some cookies are simple. Others feel like they belong on the center of the table. These Lemon Curd Daisy Shortbread Cookies bring together buttery sourdough discard shortbread, silky lemon curd, and a single fresh raspberry for a dessert that feels cheerful and thoughtful.
They are delicate without being fussy and beautiful without requiring complicated techniques. The daisy shape adds charm, while the flavor combination keeps them balanced and fresh.
Where Buttery Meets Bright Citrus
The base of these cookies begins with sourdough discard shortbread, which adds subtle depth to the rich, tender crumb. The slight complexity from the starter enhances the sweetness rather than competing with it.
Once baked, each cookie becomes a small edible cup ready to hold smooth lemon curd. The citrus filling brings brightness and contrast, cutting through the buttery base in the best way. A fresh raspberry nestled in the center adds color and a pop of natural sweetness.
Designed for Celebrations and Everyday Moments
These cookies feel right at home at spring gatherings, baby showers, brunch tables, or Easter celebrations. Their floral shape makes them eye catching, yet the ingredients remain simple and approachable.
Because they start with prepared shortbread dough, they are also manageable for busy weeks. You can bake the shells ahead of time and fill them just before serving, making them ideal for entertaining.
A Creative Way to Use Sourdough Discard
If you regularly bake with sourdough, finding new sourdough discard dessert recipes keeps your kitchen creative and sustainable. These Lemon Curd Daisy Shortbread Cookies show how versatile discard can be, especially in delicate pastries.
Instead of limiting sourdough to bread, this recipe invites you to explore sweet baking in a fresh way. The result is a cookie that looks impressive but feels comforting and homemade.

Simple Details That Make Them Special
A light dusting of powdered sugar finishes each cookie with softness and elegance. The contrast of textures is what truly makes them memorable. Crisp edges, tender centers, silky lemon curd, and a juicy raspberry all in one bite.
They are the kind of treat guests ask about and the kind you find yourself baking again when citrus season returns.

Lemon Daisy Shortbread Cookies (made with sourdough discard)
Equipment
Ingredients
- Shortbread Cookie Dough
- 1 cup Lemon Curd (store bought or homemade)
- 24 Raspberries
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Roll your shortbread dough to be around 1/4” thick. Use a daisy-shaped cookie cutter to cut your shapes. Place them inside mini muffin tins, being very careful not to break the dough. Place the center of the flower inside first, then press the petals around the edge of the muffin tin to flatten and emphasize the petal shape.
- Bake the flower cookies for 15 minutes, or until the petals just begin to brown on the edges slightly.
- Let the cookies cool completely, then fill them with lemon curd and a raspberry. Dust with powdered sugar.