Lemon Meltaways

If you’re craving a light and zesty treat, look no further than these irresistible Lemon Meltaways. These delicate, buttery cookies are bursting with bright citrus flavor and literally melt in your mouth, making them a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply treating yourself, this recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

What Are Lemon Meltaways?

Lemon Meltaways are shortbread-style cookies with a soft, crumbly texture that makes them uniquely delightful. The flavor comes from fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and a subtle hint of vanilla, giving each bite a bright citrus burst. The key to these cookies is their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is achieved by using cornstarch, which helps create that soft, tender crumb that almost dissolves on your tongue.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The ingredients are simple and the instructions are straightforward, making these cookies perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Lemon Lovers: If you’re a fan of citrus desserts, these Lemon Meltaways will be your new favorite treat. The fresh lemon zest and juice create a tangy, refreshing flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the dough.
• No Chilling Required: Unlike many cookie recipes, Lemon Meltaways don’t require refrigeration, making them even easier to whip up whenever you need them.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or just an afternoon treat, these cookies fit any occasion. Their elegant, delicate look makes them perfect for gift-giving or sharing at a party.

Ingredients Needed for Lemon Meltaways

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

How to Make Lemon Meltaways

this recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
3. Add Lemon Zest and Juice: Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough just comes together. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
5. Shape the Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into small balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press each ball of dough to flatten it slightly.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies just begin to turn golden. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking, as they should remain pale and soft.
7. Dust with Powdered Sugar: After the cookies have cooled slightly on the baking sheet, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they are fully cooled, dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Your Lemon Meltaways are ready to be enjoyed! These cookies are perfect with a cup of tea, coffee, or as a sweet treat at any gathering.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Meltaways

• Fresh Lemon Zest: The zest is key to getting that fresh, tangy lemon flavor. Be sure to use a fine grater to avoid any bitter white pith.
• Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture. Cold butter will result in a denser dough.
• Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well, so feel free to make a double batch and store some for later!

Variations on Lemon Meltaways

• Lemon Glaze: If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, drizzle the cooled cookies with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
• Lemon and Lavender: Add a teaspoon of dried lavender buds to the dough for a fragrant, floral twist that pairs beautifully with the citrusy notes.
• Lemon Blueberry: For a fruity twist, fold in fresh or dried blueberries before baking for a burst of color and flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Meltaways are the ideal cookie for any lemon lover, offering a tangy yet sweet taste with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This simple, yet elegant recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with your afternoon tea or gifting them to friends and family, these delightful cookies are sure to impress. Give this Lemon Meltaways recipe a try, and indulge in the perfect blend of buttery, citrusy goodness!

Serving and Storage Tips for Lemon Meltaways

Serving Tips:

1. Perfect Pairing: Lemon Meltaways are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serve them alongside a cup of hot tea, lemonade, or coffee to enhance their citrusy flavor. They also make a lovely addition to a brunch spread or dessert table.
2. Gifting: These delicate cookies make for a thoughtful and charming gift. Arrange them in a decorative box or a tin, and tie with a ribbon for a personal touch. They are especially great for holidays, birthdays, or as a thank-you gift.
3. Presentation: For an elegant touch, lightly dust the cookies with powdered sugar right before serving. You can also place them on a pretty plate or cookie jar for a professional-looking presentation.

---

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature: Store your Lemon Meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 7 days, keeping their soft texture and zesty flavor.
2. Freezing: If you want to make these cookies in advance or save leftovers, Lemon Meltaways freeze beautifully. Arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
3. Avoid Humidity: If you live in a humid environment, consider storing the cookies with a packet of silica gel or a small piece of parchment paper in the container to absorb excess moisture. This will help maintain their soft, meltaway texture.
4. Reheating: If you prefer your cookies warm, reheat them briefly in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This will refresh the texture without drying them out.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Lemon Meltaways at their freshest and most flavorful, whether you’re serving them immediately or saving them for later!

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. However, the taste may not be as vibrant as using fresh lemons. For the best results, we recommend using fresh lemons for both the juice and zest.

2. How do I prevent my Lemon Meltaways from spreading too much during baking?

To prevent your cookies from spreading too much, make sure your dough is well-chilled before baking. Although this recipe doesn’t require refrigeration, if you find that the dough is too soft to shape, chilling it for 15-20 minutes in the fridge can help it hold its shape better during baking.

3. Can I make Lemon Meltaways gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Be sure to check that the cornstarch you use is certified gluten-free. The texture and flavor should remain similar, but the cookies may turn out a little softer.

4. How can I make Lemon Meltaways more lemony?

To enhance the lemon flavor, you can add more lemon zest to the dough, or drizzle a tangy lemon glaze over the cookies after they’ve cooled. Simply mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice to make the glaze and drizzle it on top for an extra burst of citrus.

Print