Lemon Meltaways have always held a special place in my kitchen, and every time I make them I am reminded of long summer afternoons baking with my sisters and cousins. Lemon Meltaways were the kind of cookie that brought everyone running to the table with their bright citrus aroma drifting through the house and whispering promises of softness and sweetness. As grandmas who have spent decades in the kitchen we love recipes like this one recipes that feel like sunshine you can hold in your hand. These delicate cookies crumble lightly soften instantly and leave behind the perfect tangy kiss of lemon. They are simple nostalgic and completely irresistible.
Why You Will Love This Lemon Meltaways Recipe
There is something magical about a cookie that melts on your tongue before you even finish your first bite. These Lemon Meltaways are tender buttery and bursting with sweet citrus flavor. You will love how quick they are to make using pantry staples and one fresh lemon. Whether you are baking for a family gathering a weekday treat or a holiday cookie box these little gems always bring joy. Their bright flavor makes them feel refreshing while their delicate texture feels comforting and familiar. This is the kind of recipe our grandchildren beg for and we are delighted to share it with you.
Ingredients Needed for This Lemon Meltaways Recipe
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 pinch of salt
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make This Lemon Meltaways Recipe
- Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light fluffy and pale in color.
- Add the lemon zest lemon juice and vanilla extract and continue mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl whisk together the flour cornstarch and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix just until a soft dough forms.
- Cover and refrigerate the dough for thirty minutes to help the cookies hold their shape.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop small portions of dough and roll into one inch balls.
- Place the dough balls on the baking sheet leaving a little space between them.
- Bake for ten to twelve minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
- Let the cookies cool for five minutes then generously dust them with powdered sugar.
How to Serve This Lemon Meltaways Recipe
Serve these cookies with a warm cup of tea a glass of iced lemonade or alongside a dessert board filled with berries and whipped cream. They are lovely for brunch baby showers afternoon snacks or holiday cookie platters. Their soft delicate texture pairs beautifully with fresh fruit creamy desserts and coffee beverages.
How to Store This Lemon Meltaways Recipe
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them later you can freeze the baked cookies for up to two months. Just let them thaw at room temperature then give them a fresh dusting of powdered sugar. You can also freeze the dough balls and bake them straight from the freezer adding one to two minutes to the baking time.
Tips to Make This Lemon Meltaways Recipe
Use real fresh lemon zest because it provides the strongest citrus aroma. Make sure the butter is fully softened to achieve the fluffiest texture. Do not over mix the dough once the dry ingredients are added. Chill the dough to keep the cookies perfectly round. If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor add an extra teaspoon of zest.
Helpful Notes for This Lemon Meltaways Recipe
Cornstarch is essential because it gives the cookies their signature meltaway quality. Powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar ensures a soft delicate crumb. If your dough feels too sticky add one extra tablespoon of flour. If it feels too dry add one teaspoon of lemon juice.
Variation of This Lemon Meltaways Recipe
You can make orange meltaways using orange zest and juice. For a lavender lemon version add one eighth teaspoon culinary lavender to the dough. For a festive winter cookie dip half of each baked meltaway in white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed freeze dried raspberries.
FAQs About This Lemon Meltaways Recipe
Can I make the dough ahead of time
Yes you can chill the dough for up to twenty four hours before baking.
Can I add glaze instead of powdered sugar
Absolutely mix powdered sugar with lemon juice and drizzle over the cooled cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten free
Yes use a cup for cup gluten free flour blend for excellent results.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy every soft sweet citrusy bite of these delightful cookies. Share them with friends family and anyone who loves bright fresh flavors. These cookies are simple enough for any day yet special enough to bring to a celebration. When you make Lemon Meltaways you are baking sunshine.
Print
Lemon Meltaways The Softest Citrus Cookies Ever
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft powdered sugar coated Lemon Meltaways with bright citrus flavor and a tender melt in your mouth texture.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all purpose flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Cream butter and powdered sugar until fluffy
2. Mix in lemon zest lemon juice and vanilla
3. Whisk flour cornstarch and salt
4. Combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients
5. Chill dough for 30 minutes
6. Preheat oven to 350F and line baking sheet
7. Roll dough into balls
8. Bake 10 to 12 minutes
9. Cool and dust with powdered sugar
Notes
Use fresh lemon zest for best flavor
Do not over mix the dough
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 28mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: lemon cookies citrus meltaway cookies buttery lemon shortbread easy lemon cookie recipe tangy lemon dessert
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