Lemon Meltaway Cookies – Delicate, Zesty & Egg‑Free
Introduction
These Lemon Meltaway Cookies are buttery, tender, and bursting with citrus flavor. With no eggs required, they’re perfect for anyone looking for a simple, melt‑in‑your‑mouth treat. The double coating of powdered sugar gives them a snowy finish that makes them as pretty as they are delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Egg‑free: Great for those with dietary restrictions.
Bright lemon flavor: Fresh zest and juice make them irresistible.
Delicate texture: Cornstarch keeps them light and tender.
Perfect for gifting: Their powdered sugar coating looks festive.
Ingredients
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all‑purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
¼ tsp salt
1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for coating)
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Cream Butter & Sugar
Beat softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Flavorings
Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk flour, cornstarch, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to wet mixture until dough forms.
Step 4: Chill Dough
Divide dough into two logs (about 1.5 inches thick). Wrap in plastic and refrigerate at least 1 hour.
Step 5: Slice & Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice logs into ¼‑inch rounds and place on lined baking sheets. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges just turn golden.
Step 6: Coat in Sugar
Cool slightly, then toss warm cookies in powdered sugar (mixed with optional zest). Cool completely on wire rack, then toss again for a thicker coating.
Tips & Tricks
Extra lemony: Add more zest to the coating sugar.
Storage: Keep in airtight container up to 5 days.
Freezer friendly: Freeze dough logs up to 2 months; slice and bake when ready.
Presentation: Serve in paper cups or gift tins for a festive touch.
Variations
Orange Meltaways: Swap lemon juice/zest for orange.
Lavender Lemon: Add a pinch of dried culinary lavender.
Almond Lemon: Replace vanilla with almond extract.
Glazed Version: Drizzle with lemon glaze instead of powdered sugar.
Serving Ideas
Pair with tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
Add to holiday cookie platters.
Serve alongside fresh berries for a light dessert.
Package in jars or tins for homemade gifts.
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt slightly.
Q: Can I skip chilling the dough?
No, chilling helps cookies hold shape while baking.
Q: Can I make them gluten‑free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten‑free flour blend.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~1.5 hours
Yield: ~24 cookies
Final Thoughts
These Lemon Meltaway Cookies are delicate, citrusy, and truly melt in your mouth. With their snowy powdered sugar coating and bright lemon flavor, they’re a cheerful treat for any occasion.