Lemon Meltaway Cookies

Lemon Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat that combines buttery goodness with a bright, zesty flavor. These cookies are not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious, making them perfect for both busy days and special occasions. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing taste, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 120
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 50mg

Why Make Lemon Meltaway Cookies

Lemon Meltaway Cookies are not only tasty but also bring a breath of fresh air to your cookie jar. The bright lemon flavor is invigorating and can lift anyone’s mood. These cookies are versatile; you can enjoy them on their own, pair them with tea for a cozy afternoon, or serve them at gatherings. Plus, they feature simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, making them a go-to recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.

How to Make Lemon Meltaway Cookies Step by Step

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust cookies with additional powdered sugar for a meltaway effect.

How to Serve Lemon Meltaway Cookies

These cookies are perfect on their own but can also be elevated with a light dusting of additional powdered sugar or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a charming afternoon tea, serve them alongside a refreshing herbal tea or a light salad. You can also enjoy them crumbled over yogurt with a drizzle of honey for a zesty breakfast treat.

How to Store Lemon Meltaway Cookies

Lemon Meltaway Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in a low oven for a few minutes.

Expert Tips for Cooking Lemon Meltaway Cookies

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough; mixing until just combined will keep your cookies tender.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh lemon zest for the brightest flavor.
• For a twist, add a pinch of crushed lavender or rosemary for an herbal undertone.
• Experiment with different citrus zest like lime or orange for unique variations.

Delicious Variations of Lemon Meltaway Cookies

• Add a spicy twist by incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper for a light heat.
• For a herbed version, fold in some finely chopped fresh thyme or basil to the dough.
• Use a mix of citrus by adding lime and orange zest for a citrus medley cookie.

Lemon Meltaway Cookies are a must-try for anyone looking for a simple yet flavorful treat. Their bright flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies promise to delight with every bite. Give them a try today!

Lemon Meltaway Cookies

Lemon Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat that combines buttery goodness with a bright, zesty flavor. Enjoy them for any occasion with family and friends.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest Use freshly grated lemon zest for the brightest flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Use freshly squeezed lemon juice.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional powdered sugar for dusting For dusting once cooled.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm.

Baking

1. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Once cooled, dust cookies with additional powdered sugar for a meltaway effect.

Notes

These cookies are perfect on their own but can also be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crumbled over yogurt with honey. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for a week or freeze for up to three months.