How to Make Lemon Meltaway Cookies: 7 Steps to Bliss

There’s something magical about baking cookies that fills the kitchen with warmth and joy. I mean, who can resist the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the air? Today, I’m sharing my absolute favorite recipe for how to make Lemon Meltaway Cookies: a soft, tangy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These little bites of sunshine are not only super easy to whip up but they melt in your mouth with a delightful burst of lemon flavor. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one! So, grab your apron, and let’s get baking these irresistible cookies that will brighten up your day and impress your friends!

Ingredients List

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest, freshly grated
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Lemon Meltaway Cookies: A Soft, Tangy Treat

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important for even baking, so don’t skip this step! While the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and get ready to create some magic.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter and 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Now, grab your trusty mixer or a wooden spoon and cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and has a smooth texture – think whipped clouds of happiness!

Step 3: Add Flavorings

Next up, let’s brighten things up! Add in the 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s just combined. You’ll start to smell that lovely lemony aroma – it’s a sign you’re on the right track!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This step helps to ensure that your cookies have a nice, tender texture. Mixing these dry ingredients separately prevents any clumps when you add them to the wet mixture later!

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time for the fun part! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Remember, we want to mix until just combined – no overworking the dough here! You want it to be soft, so stop mixing as soon as you don’t see any dry flour. This is the key to those meltaway cookies we’re aiming for!

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to get shaping! Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into balls – about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave enough space between them. They’ll spread a little while baking, so give them some room to breathe!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Pop your baking sheet in the oven and let those cookies bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want the edges to be just lightly golden. This is your visual cue that they’re done – they’ll look so inviting!

Step 8: Cool and Dust

Once you take them out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for just a few minutes. This is crucial because they need to firm up a bit before moving them. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. And here comes the best part: once they’re cool, dust them generously with powdered sugar! This makes them look so pretty and adds that extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy the delightful tangy flavor and the melt-in-your-mouth texture – you’ve earned it!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each delicious Lemon Meltaway Cookie. Keep in mind these are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying with each bite:

• Calories: 90
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 1g

These cookies are light yet satisfying, making them perfect for indulging without the guilt. Enjoy every tangy, meltaway moment!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up these delightful Lemon Meltaway Cookies, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

First, don’t be afraid to adjust the lemon zest to your taste. If you love that tangy punch, adding a little more zest can elevate the flavor! Just remember, a little goes a long way, so start with a teaspoon or two extra and see how you like it.

Next, when it comes to storing your cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and delicious for about a week! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll be good for up to three months!

Lastly, if you find the dough a bit sticky when shaping, a light dusting of powdered sugar on your hands can help! It keeps the dough from sticking and makes the shaping process much easier. Trust me, these little tricks will have you baking like a pro in no time!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted for Lemon Meltaway Cookies?
Absolutely! If you use salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe to a pinch or none at all. The cookies will still turn out delicious!

Q2: How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Look for the edges to be lightly golden, and the center should look set but not overly firm. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a bit soft when you first pull them out!

Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before shaping and baking to make it easier to handle.

Q4: What’s the best way to store Lemon Meltaway Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just remember to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Q5: Can I add more lemon zest for a stronger flavor?
Definitely! If you love that zesty kick, feel free to add a teaspoon or two more of lemon zest. Just remember to taste as you go so you don’t overpower the delicate balance!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just about 35 minutes from start to finish, you can have these cookies ready in no time!
• Deliciously tangy: The bright lemon flavor really shines through, giving each bite a refreshing zing.
• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These cookies are soft and delicate, truly living up to their name!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, these cookies are sure to impress.
• Easy to customize: Feel free to adjust the lemon zest or even add a drizzle of glaze to make them your own!

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Meltaway Cookies are delightful on their own, but if you want to elevate the experience, here are some fun serving suggestions!

First, why not pair them with a refreshing cup of herbal tea or a chilled glass of lemonade? The citrus notes in both drinks beautifully complement the tangy flavor of the cookies. Trust me, it makes for a delightful afternoon treat!

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider creating a dessert platter. Mix these cookies with other goodies like chocolate-dipped strawberries or mini fruit tarts. The contrast of flavors and colors will impress your guests and create a visually stunning display.

For a simple twist, serve the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The creaminess balances out the tanginess of the cookies, making for a delicious combination that everyone will love!

Lastly, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try crumbling a few cookies over yogurt or a fruit salad. It adds a lovely crunch and a burst of lemon flavor that will brighten up your dish. Enjoy experimenting with these ideas, and remember, there’s no wrong way to enjoy these little bites of sunshine!

For more recipes follow me in page Pinterest.

Print