Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways

Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways are a delightful addition to any dessert table or afternoon tea spread. These cookies are incredibly simple to make and pack a burst of refreshing lemon flavor in every bite. With their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the sweetness of powdered sugar, they are perfect for sharing or enjoying all to yourself on a busy day.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 25-28 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 120
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 50mg

Why Make Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways

These cookies are not only delicious but also made with simple ingredients that many people already have in their pantries. The lemon zest and juice add a bright, citrusy flavor that can uplift your mood and energize your day. Ideal for any occasion, Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways are versatile enough to pair with your favorite tea or coffee and equally delightful as a light treat after dinner.

How to Make Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways Step by Step

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). 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. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, blending gently until a soft dough forms.
6. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
9. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.

How to Serve Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways

These cookies can be served on their own or dressed up with a side of fresh berries for a refreshing twist. Pair them with a light fruit salad for a bright, citrus-infused dessert. They can also be enjoyed alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making for a delightful dessert experience.

How to Store Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Simply place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, let them thaw at room temperature, and enjoy their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Expert Tips for Cooking Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways

• Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
• For an extra kick, add a pinch of salt to the powdered sugar when dusting the cookies.
• Adjust the lemon zest to your preference for a more intense lemon flavor.
• Ensure not to overbake these cookies; they should remain pale on top for the perfect texture.
• Try varying the sugar to add a touch of honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Delicious Variations of Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways

For a twist on the classic, you can incorporate poppy seeds for a crunchy texture while keeping the same dough. You can also make a citrus version by mixing in orange or lime zest. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of lavender for a flowery flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon.

These Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways are a must-try for anyone looking to brighten their day with a sweet treat. Their delightful flavor and easy preparation make them the perfect recipe for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy making these fantastic lemon meltaways!

Sunshine-Soft Lemon Meltaways

These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are bursting with refreshing lemon flavor, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 28 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 2 lemons)
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). 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. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, blending gently until a soft dough forms.
6. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

Baking

1. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
2. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
3. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can be frozen for up to three months. For variations, try adding poppy seeds or other citrus zests.