Description
These Lemon Meltaways are delicate, buttery cookies with a zesty lemon flavor that truly melt in your mouth. Coated in powdered sugar, they’re perfect for tea time, holiday trays, or any occasion that calls for a bright and refreshing treat!
Ingredients
Units
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For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Coating:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
1. Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough:
- Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
3. Slice and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Unwrap the chilled dough and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheets.
4. Coat the Cookies:
- While the cookies are still warm, gently toss them in powdered sugar. For extra lemony flavor, mix the powdered sugar with additional lemon zest before coating.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Toss them in powdered sugar again for a thicker coating, if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Lemon Substitutes: For a different flavor, try orange or lime zest and juice instead of lemon.
- Decorative Touch: Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for extra sweetness.