Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture – These cookies are soft, light, and delicate, just like a meltaway should be.
• Bright and zesty – The combination of fresh lemon zest and glaze creates a tangy, citrusy flavor that’s refreshing and irresistible.
• Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples, these cookies are quick and easy to prepare.
• Perfect for gifting – The cookies look beautiful and taste delicious, making them a perfect treat for friends, family, or special occasions.
• Customizable – You can adjust the level of lemon flavor or add a little extra sweetness depending on your taste.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, then beat until combined.
3. Add the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour, cornstarch, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly crumbly.
4. Shape the cookies: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. You can slightly flatten them with the bottom of a glass or your fingers to make them more cookie-like, but they will spread a little as they bake.
5. Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. These cookies are meant to be soft, so don’t let them brown too much.
6. Cool the cookies: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Glaze

1. Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a few more drops of lemon juice until it reaches a pourable consistency.
2. Glaze the cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle or dip the top of each cookie in the lemon glaze. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the glaze has set, serve your Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies with a refreshing drink or enjoy them on their own. They’re perfect for tea parties, afternoon snacks, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24-30 cookies
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 12-15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add lemon juice to the dough: For a more intense lemon flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to the dough.
• Lemon poppy seed variation: Add 1-2 teaspoons of poppy seeds to the dough for a bit of texture and a traditional lemon poppy seed flavor.
• Lemon-lime twist: Use a combination of lemon and lime zest in both the dough and glaze for a citrusy blend of flavors.
• Frosting option: For a thicker, more decadent topping, use a thicker lemon frosting instead of a glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerating: If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter for this recipe?

It’s best to use unsalted butter, as salted butter could affect the flavor balance of the cookies.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Make sure the cornstarch is gluten-free as well.

3. Can I make these cookies without the glaze?

Yes, you can skip the glaze for a simpler version of these cookies. They will still be delicious without it!

4. Can I add more lemon juice to the glaze?

Yes! If you want a more pronounced lemon flavor, you can add extra lemon juice to the glaze, but make sure to adjust the powdered sugar accordingly to maintain the right consistency.

5. Can I use a different citrus for these cookies?

Absolutely! You can try using lime, orange, or even grapefruit zest in place of the lemon for a different twist.

6. How can I make the cookies more chewy?

For a chewier texture, reduce the baking time by a minute or two and keep a closer eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if you need more cookies. Just make sure to increase the baking time slightly if needed, and use two baking sheets.

8. How do I get the cookies to have a nice glaze finish?

Let the cookies cool completely before glazing. This helps the glaze set properly without melting into the cookie.

9. Can I add more sugar to the dough?

If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can add up to 1/4 cup more powdered sugar to the dough, but keep in mind that it will affect the texture.

10. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Roll the dough into balls just before baking.

Conclusion

Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies are the perfect combination of refreshing citrus flavor and a light, buttery texture. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to enjoy a little treat, these cookies are sure to impress with their delicate crumb and zesty lemon glaze. Give them a try and enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in every bite!

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