Description
Lemon Meltaway Cookies are delicate, buttery cookies infused with the bright, refreshing flavor of lemon. These cookies are known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and a delightful dusting of powdered sugar that adds a touch of sweetness and elegance. Perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to holiday gatherings, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet, creamy dough creates a harmonious balance that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle for even baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. Proper creaming is essential for achieving the desired texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Lemon and Vanilla: Add the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined, ensuring the lemon zest is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. This ensures that the salt is evenly dispersed in the flour, which is crucial for the overall flavor of the cookies.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies. Mix until the flour is fully incorporated but no more.
Step 6: Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Flatten the Cookies: Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm. This will help the cookies bake evenly and give them a more uniform shape.
Step 8: Bake: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 9: Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them generously with additional powdered sugar. This gives them the classic “meltaway” look and adds a touch of sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Lemon Meltaway Cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and straightforward steps. The combination of buttery richness and zesty lemon creates a delightful flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. Their delicate texture and beautiful appearance make them perfect for any occasion, and they’re always a hit with family and friends. Plus, they’re ideal for gifting during the holidays or special events.
DRINK Rating
Pairing Suggestion: A cup of Earl Grey tea complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Arrange on a platter for a festive holiday treat.
- Package in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Enjoy with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.
- Serve at tea parties, bake sales, or casual gatherings.
Tips:
- Use freshly grated lemon zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor. Avoid the white pith, as it can be bitter.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading. This will help the cookies maintain their shape.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract to the dough.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- If the dough is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for a longer period.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information: (per cookie)
- Calories: Approximately 140 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 1g
- Sodium: Approximately 20mg
Conclusion
Lemon Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the comforting texture of a classic meltaway cookie and the bright, refreshing flavor of lemon. This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a delicious homemade cookie, these Lemon Meltaway Cookies are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of these melt-in-your-mouth delights.
Questions and Answers about This Recipe
- Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
- While you can use salted butter, it’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe. If you use salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt to 1/8 teaspoon.
- Can I freeze the cookie dough?
- Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
- Can I make these cookies without lemon zest?
- While the lemon zest is a key ingredient, you can still make the cookies without it. The flavor will be less intense, but they will still be delicious. Consider adding a bit more lemon juice or a drop of lemon extract to compensate.
- Why are my cookies spreading too much?
- Spreading can be caused by a few factors, such as using butter that is too soft, not chilling the dough, or an oven that is not at the correct temperature. Make sure your butter is softened but still cool, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, and verify your oven temperature.
- How do I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can dry them out.
