Description
These simple Lemon Meltaway Cookies are buttery, tender, and burst with bright citrus flavor, melting in your mouth with every bite.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup powdered sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Step 3: Beat in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 6: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just set and very lightly golden (the cookies should still be pale). Do not overbake.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Once completely cooled, dust generously with additional powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
For the best flavor, always use fresh lemon juice and zest. Ensure your butter is truly at room temperature for a smooth, creamy dough. Do not overbake these cookies; they should remain pale for that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 35mg