Lemon Meltaway Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Meltaway Cookies are the perfect blend of bright citrus flavor and delicate, buttery texture. These cookies literally melt in your mouth, leaving behind a refreshing burst of lemony goodness. They are easy to make, perfect for spring and summer gatherings, tea parties, or whenever you crave a light, tangy treat. Their soft, crumbly texture combined with a sweet, lemon glaze makes them irresistible.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Salt

For the Lemon Glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
10. To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
11. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Lime Meltaways: Substitute lime juice and zest for a tropical twist.
• Lavender Lemon Cookies: Add a pinch of culinary lavender for a floral note.
• Coconut Lemon Delight: Mix in shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies without glaze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Why are my cookies crumbly?

These cookies are meant to be tender and melt-in-your-mouth. Ensure the butter is properly creamed to maintain the right texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month.

How do I prevent the glaze from being too runny?

Add more powdered sugar to thicken the glaze if needed.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds extra lemon flavor.

How do I make the cookies more lemony?

Add extra lemon zest to both the dough and the glaze for a more intense citrus flavor.

Can I freeze the baked cookies?

Yes, freeze them without the glaze, and apply the glaze after thawing.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

You can substitute with an equal amount of flour, but the cookies may be less tender.

How do I get uniform-sized cookies?

Use a small cookie scoop to ensure even portions.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Absolutely! They package beautifully and are perfect for cookie tins or gift boxes.

Conclusion

Lemon Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of fresh citrus flavor with every bite. Their tender, buttery texture and tangy glaze make them perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to holiday cookie trays. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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