Lemon Meltaways Recipe

If you’re craving a melt-in-your-mouth treat that bursts with a bright, citrusy zing, this Lemon Meltaways Recipe is exactly what you need. These delicate cookies combine the richness of buttery softness with a refreshing hint of lemon zest and extract, making each bite simply unforgettable. Light as a cloud, tender as a whisper, and dusted with a snowy coating of powdered sugar, Lemon Meltaways are like little sunshine bites perfect for any occasion or a cozy afternoon snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Lemon Meltaways Recipe plays a crucial role to create a perfect texture and flavor balance. From the creamy butter that forms the base to the zest that adds a natural citrus pop, each element is simple yet essential to achieve these irresistibly soft cookies.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the rich, creamy base that melts beautifully in your mouth.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds natural sweetness and contributes to the tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract: Delivers a concentrated lemon flavor that brightens the cookie.
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure that holds the cookie together with a light crumb.
• 1/4 cup cornstarch: Ensures a soft, delicate texture by lightening the flour’s heft.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Adds fresh citrus oils and a fragrant burst to every bite.
• Additional powdered sugar for rolling: Creates the classic meltaway look and a slight crunch on the exterior.

How to Make Lemon Meltaways Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar in a large bowl until it’s light and fluffy. This process is key because it aerates the mixture, making the cookies light and tender instead of dense.

Step 2: Add Lemon Flavors

Mix in the lemon extract and fresh lemon zest. This step infuses the dough with that unmistakable citrusy brightness you crave, lending a truly fresh profile that balances the buttery richness.

Step 3: Blend Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Combining these dry elements carefully ensures your cookies have just the right softness and structure without becoming crumbly or tough.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the flour mixture to your lemony butter blend, stirring gently until everything is fully incorporated. This method avoids overmixing, preserving the cookie’s tender texture for a perfect meltaway sensation.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking while enhancing their delicate texture.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Setting up your workstation this way prevents sticking and ensures even baking for your meltaways.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Roll your chilled dough into 1-inch balls. The consistent size helps the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect, tender center with just a hint of crispness on the edges.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are just set and still pale—no browning here to keep that delicate flavor pure and subtle.

Step 9: Coat with Powdered Sugar

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar. This step creates the iconic snap and sweetness on the outside that contrasts beautifully with the soft inside.

Step 10: Cool Completely

Transfer the lemon meltaways to a wire rack and allow them to cool fully before serving. This lets the powdered sugar set and the cookies finish their magical melting process.

How to Serve Lemon Meltaways Recipe

Garnishes

For a fancy twist, sprinkle a little extra lemon zest or a light dusting of edible glitter to brighten up these charming cookies. A tiny mint leaf on the side can also add a fresh aroma that surprises and delights your guests.

Side Dishes

Lemon meltaways pair beautifully with a simple cup of hot tea, a glass of chilled lemonade, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a dessert that’s both light and indulgent. They also complement fresh berries or a light fruit salad for a colorful presentation.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking these cookies on a tiered cake stand for a pretty centerpiece at a brunch or tea party. Alternatively, package them in a clear jar tied with a yellow ribbon as a heartfelt homemade gift that everyone will appreciate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your Lemon Meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them tender and flavorful so you can enjoy that meltaway magic anytime without losing any of their delicate charm.

Freezing

If you want to save them longer, freeze the baked cookies in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag. When stored this way, they maintain their texture and taste beautifully for up to three months.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked softness, gently warm the cookies in a low oven or microwave for just a few seconds. Be careful not to overheat them so you preserve their delicate meltaway texture.

FAQs

Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon extract?

While lemon juice adds fresh flavor, it contains liquid that could alter the dough’s texture. Lemon extract is concentrated and dry, maintaining the cookie’s tender texture. If using juice, reduce other liquids slightly and consider increasing zest for extra flavor.

What makes these cookies “meltaway”?

The combination of cornstarch and powdered sugar, along with creamed butter, creates an ultra-tender, crumbly texture that literally melts on your tongue. The chilling step also helps achieve that signature softness.

Can I substitute cornstarch with another ingredient?

Cornstarch is key for the delicate texture in Lemon Meltaways Recipe. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can try potato starch or arrowroot powder as a similar alternative, but avoid skipping it altogether.

How do I prevent these cookies from browning?

Keep your oven temperature steady at 350°F (175°C) and watch the cookies closely toward the end of baking. Remove them as soon as the edges set to preserve their pale, tender appearance and avoid overbaking.

Are Lemon Meltaways gluten-free?

The classic Lemon Meltaways Recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, replace the flour with a gluten-free baking blend suitable for cookies, ensuring the texture stays light and tender.

Final Thoughts

Making this Lemon Meltaways Recipe is like inviting a little sunshine into your kitchen. Each soft, buttery cookie with its bright lemony zest is a delightful way to brighten any day or celebration. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these sweet treasures as much as I do — they’re simply too good to keep to yourself!

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