Introduction
If you’re searching for a delightful treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemons with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, look no further! These Easiest Lemon Meltaway Cookies are a breeze to whip up and will charm your taste buds with their sweet and tangy goodness. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a sunny afternoon tea or a cozy gathering with friends, you’ll find these cookies to be an irresistible addition to your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a beautifully airy base for your cookies.
- Add the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Now, stir in the zest of the lemon and lemon juice to bring a vibrant freshness to the dough, resulting in a burst of citrus flavor in every bite.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into little balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are about 2 inches apart for even baking.
- Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, filling your kitchen with an enticing lemon aroma.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- After they have cooled, give the cookies a lovely dusting of extra powdered sugar, adding a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Notes or Tips
For an extra lemony kick, feel free to increase the lemon zest and juice by a half teaspoon. These cookies also freeze beautifully—just make sure to store them in an airtight container, and add the powdered sugar after thawing for the best presentation!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, it’s crucial to beat them together until you achieve a fluffy texture. This aeration is what helps create that wonderful meltaway factor in your cookies. Also, be gentle when combining your dry ingredients to keep the cookies soft and tender.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
While you can use salted butter, it’s best to stick with unsalted for this recipe, as it allows you to control the amount of salt in the dough more precisely.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.
Conclusion
These Easiest Lemon Meltaway Cookies are a delightful, simple treat that will brighten up any day with their zesty flavor and tender texture. Perfect for lemon lovers, they make an excellent gift or a sweet end to any meal. Enjoy making and sharing these little bites of sunshine with your loved ones!