Lemon Meltaway Cookies

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Lemon Meltaway Cookies – Soft, Buttery, and Bright with Citrus Sunshine

There’s something undeniably joyful about lemon desserts. They’re light, zesty, and refreshing—like a burst of sunshine in every bite. These Lemon Meltaway Cookies are no exception. With a tender, buttery crumb and a bright lemon flavor, they quite literally melt in your mouth. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, they’re as pretty as they are delicious.

Whether you’re baking for a spring brunch, a holiday cookie exchange, or just a quiet afternoon tea, these cookies are a delightful addition to any occasion. They’re simple to make, require no fancy equipment, and deliver bakery-quality results every time.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

  • Melt-in-your-mouth texture – Thanks to a buttery base and powdered sugar.
  • Bright lemon flavor – Fresh zest and juice bring a citrusy zing.
  • Quick and easy – Just 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • Perfect for gifting – Elegant, dainty, and universally loved.
  • Customizable – Add a glaze, swap citrus, or infuse with herbs for a twist.

Ingredients

This recipe yields about 24 cookies.

For the Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
    The key to a tender, meltaway texture.
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
    Dissolves easily and keeps the cookies soft.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
    Use fresh zest for the brightest flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
    Adds tang and moisture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    Balances the citrus with warm, sweet notes.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    Provides structure while keeping the cookies delicate.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
    Enhances all the flavors.

For the Finish

  • Additional powdered sugar, for dusting
    Creates a snowy, sweet coating.

Optional Add-ins:

  • ½ teaspoon lemon extract for extra zing
  • A pinch of cardamom or ginger for warmth
  • Swap lemon for orange or lime for a citrus variation

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Microplane or zester
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Fine mesh sieve (for dusting sugar)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat:

  • 1 cup softened butter
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar

Mix on medium speed for 2–3 minutes, until light and fluffy.

Tip: Creaming properly incorporates air, giving the cookies their signature meltaway texture.

Step 3: Add Lemon and Vanilla

Mix in:

  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Beat until fully combined and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.

Tip: Don’t overmix—stop as soon as the dough comes together to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.

Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm.

Optional: Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.

The centers should remain pale and soft.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once the cookies are completely cool, use a fine mesh sieve to dust them generously with powdered sugar.

This gives them their signature meltaway finish and a beautiful snowy look.

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Calories: ~140 kcal per cookie (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best flavor—bottled juice won’t have the same brightness.
  • Soften the butter to room temperature for easy creaming.
  • Chill the dough if your kitchen is warm or the dough feels too soft.
  • Don’t overbake—the cookies should be pale with just a hint of golden edges.
  • Dust after cooling to keep the powdered sugar from melting into the cookies.

Variations to Try

  • Lemon Glaze: Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice and drizzle over cooled cookies.
  • Lime Meltaways: Swap lemon zest and juice for lime for a tropical twist.
  • Lavender Lemon: Add ½ teaspoon culinary lavender for a floral note.
  • Almond Lemon: Replace vanilla with almond extract for a nutty undertone.
  • Sandwich Cookies: Spread lemon curd between two cookies for a decadent treat.

Perfect for Gifting

These cookies are ideal for:

  • Holiday cookie boxes
  • Bridal or baby showers
  • Afternoon tea parties
  • Hostess gifts
  • Just-because surprises

Package in parchment-lined tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a charming homemade gift.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Meltaway Cookies are a celebration of simplicity and flavor. With their soft, buttery texture and bright citrus zing, they’re the kind of cookie that disappears quickly from the plate. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, they’re guaranteed to bring a little sunshine to your day.

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