Description
Delight in these delicate Lemon Meltaways, buttery cookies infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Soft and melt-in-your-mouth, they are perfect for tea time or any occasion that calls for a light, citrusy treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration lends a tender texture to the cookies.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined, infusing the dough with bright citrus and aromatic vanilla notes.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning elements.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough and keeping cookies tender.
- Shape Dough: Roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten each ball using the bottom of a glass or your fingers to ensure even baking.
- Chill if Needed: If your dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes before shaping to firm it up and prevent spreading during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn golden, indicating they are perfectly baked yet soft inside.
- Cool Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
- Prepare Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and optional lemon zest until smooth to create a tangy glaze that complements the buttery cookies.
- Glaze Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle or spread the lemon glaze over the tops. Allow the glaze to set fully before serving to enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest in the dough or add more lemon juice to the glaze.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in both the dough and glaze.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle additional lemon zest on top of the glaze before it sets.
- Chilling the dough is optional but recommended if your kitchen is warm to prevent excessive spreading during baking.
