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Lemon Meltaways

Lemon Meltaways
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Lemon Meltaways are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies bursting with bright citrus flavor and a buttery, tender crumb. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make cookies combine simple pantry ingredients with fresh lemon zest and juice to create a refreshing treat that delights all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (finely grated lemon peel, yellow part only)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Zest and juice fresh lemons then measure all ingredients. Soften the butter to room temperature for easier mixing.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, forming a smooth base for the dough.
  3. Add Lemon and Vanilla: Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture to infuse it with bright, citrusy flavors.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add all-purpose flour and pinch of salt, mixing gently until just combined to form a soft, workable dough without overmixing.
  5. Shape and Bake: Roll dough into small balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes until set but still pale.
  6. Cool and Dust: Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack, then dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to avoid tough cookies.
  • Room temperature butter helps achieve a lighter texture.
  • Chilling the dough before baking is optional but helps maintain shape in warm kitchens.
  • Remove cookies from oven as soon as edges are set for a tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/lemon-meltaways/