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Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies

Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies
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Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies are soft, tender cookies bursting with bright citrus flavor from fresh lemon zest and juice. These melt-in-your-mouth treats blend buttery richness with a delicate texture that’s quick and easy to prepare using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for gifting, afternoon tea, or holiday celebrations, they bring a refreshing and elegant touch to any dessert selection.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Flavorings

  • Zest of 2 medium lemons (freshly grated)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
    Beat the softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar until the mixture is light, smooth, and fluffy. This creates the tender base texture for the cookies.
  2. Step 2: Incorporate the Lemon Zest and Juice
    Add the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix thoroughly to release the vibrant citrus aroma and combine all flavors evenly.
  3. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend), cornstarch, and salt to ensure an even distribution of dry components.
  4. Step 4: Blend Dry and Wet Mixtures
    Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet lemon mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the meltaway tenderness.
  5. Step 5: Shape the Cookies
    Roll the dough into small balls, roughly 1 inch in diameter, and place them spaced evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet to allow for slight spreading.
  6. Step 6: Bake Until Lightly Golden
    Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn a light golden color while keeping the centers soft.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated lemon zest just before baking for maximum brightness and flavor.
  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and optimal cookie texture.
  • Do not overbake; cookies should be barely golden at edges to preserve tenderness.
  • If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it briefly to help cookies retain shape.
  • Cornstarch is essential for the signature meltaway softness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon cookies, meltaway cookies, zesty lemon, citrus cookies, soft cookies, gluten-free lemon cookies, buttery cookies

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/zesty-lemon-meltaway-cookies/