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Lemon Meltaway Cookies

Lemon Meltaway Cookies

Lemon Meltaway Cookies feature a delicate balance of zesty citrus and tender buttery richness, delivering a light lemon flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. These easy-to-bake cookies are soft, crumbly, and perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a cup of tea, making them an irresistible fresh treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Butter and Sugar Mixture: Beat softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth, creating the perfect base for tender meltaway cookies.
  2. Add Fresh Flavors: Mix in freshly grated lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract to infuse the dough with bright and aromatic citrus flavor.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together all-purpose flour and salt, then gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, gently stirring to maintain a soft dough.
  4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape while baking.
  5. Shape and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and gently press down to flatten slightly. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
  6. Cool and Optional Dusting: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with extra powdered sugar for a finishing touch if desired.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter to ensure smooth beating and a light, airy dough texture.
  • Don’t overmix; fold the flour in gently to keep cookies tender, not tough.
  • Fresh lemon zest is essential for vibrant flavor and aroma; dried zest doesn’t provide the same quality.
  • Chill the dough to prevent spreading so cookies bake evenly and hold their shape.
  • Remove cookies from the oven when edges just start to turn golden to avoid drying them out.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon cookies, meltaway cookies, citrus cookies, easy cookies, buttery cookies, soft cookies, lemon dessert