Delight your taste buds with these Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies, which boast a perfect balance of tangy lemon flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies are light, buttery, and refreshing—ideal for springtime gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a year-round treat for lemon lovers.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1–2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two portions. Roll each into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
2. Slice and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Remove dough logs from the refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place cookies about 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are just barely golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Lemon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more lemon juice for a thinner drizzle.
4. Glaze the Cookies
- Once cookies are completely cooled, drizzle or spread the lemon glaze over the tops. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of lemon zest or powdered sugar over the glaze.
- Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip this step! Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to slice and ensuring the cookies hold their shape during baking.
- Zesting Lemons: Use a microplane zester for the best results, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.
Variations
- Orange Meltaway Cookies: Swap lemon zest and juice for orange zest and juice to create a citrusy twist.
- Lemon-Lime Fusion: Combine equal parts lemon and lime zest for a tangy flavor blend.
- Poppy Seed Addition: Stir 1–2 teaspoons of poppy seeds into the dough for added texture and visual appeal.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Delicate Texture: These cookies are so soft they practically melt in your mouth.
- Vibrant Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest provide a zesty, tangy brightness.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Absolutely. Wrap the dough logs tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw slightly in the refrigerator before slicing and baking.
Q: What’s the best way to achieve a strong lemon flavor?
A: Use freshly grated zest for maximum citrus flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice as it lacks the same vibrant taste.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes! This recipe doubles beautifully if you’re baking for a crowd or planning to gift cookies.
These Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat that will impress anyone who loves citrus desserts. Their delicate texture and tangy glaze make them a standout addition to any cookie platter. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your lemon cravings, this recipe is a must-try.
Don’t forget to share your creations! Tag us on social media and let us know how your cookies turned out. Happy baking!
