Description

These Lemon Meltaway Cookies are soft, buttery, and packed with bright, zesty lemon flavor. They literally melt in your mouth thanks to their delicate, shortbread-like texture. Finished with a light lemon glaze, they’re the perfect refreshing treat for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or whenever you crave something sweet and citrusy!

Ingredients

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For the Cookies:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest (about 1 large lemon)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt

For the Lemon Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1–2 tsp milk (if needed, to adjust consistency)

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Instructions

Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Cookies:
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into small balls.
Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Gently flatten each ball slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass.
Bake:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
Add a little milk if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
Glaze the Cookies:
Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle or spread the glaze over the tops.
Let the glaze set for about 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Extra Lemon Zing: Add a drop of lemon extract to the dough for an even bolder lemon flavor.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing Tip: These cookies freeze well—just glaze them after thawing for best results.