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Lemon Meltaways

Lemon Meltaways
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Lemon Meltaways are tender, buttery cookies bursting with fresh lemon zest and juice, offering a zesty citrus punch and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfectly soft, sweet, and refreshingly light, these simple cookies are ideal for any occasion, easy to customize, and guaranteed to brighten your day with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: Begin by beating the softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This step ensures the cookies will have their signature melt-in-the-mouth texture.
  2. Add Lemon and Vanilla: Mix in fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. This combination builds the vibrant, tangy flavor profile that defines Lemon Meltaways.
  3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the sifted all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture, being careful not to overwork the dough to keep it tender and crumbly.
  4. Shape and Chill the Dough: Roll the dough into small balls or logs, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and prevents spreading.
  5. Bake Until Just Set: Arrange the dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are just set but centers remain soft.
  6. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar to finish them off with a delicate sweet coating.

Notes

  • Use butter that’s softened but not melted to achieve the ideal texture.
  • Refrigerating the dough is crucial for preventing spreading and preserving cookie shape.
  • Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most authentic, vibrant flavor.
  • Handle dough gently to avoid developing gluten and toughening the cookies.
  • Use a cookie scoop or measure dough to ensure uniform baking and even sizing.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon cookies, meltaway cookies, citrus dessert, buttery cookies, gluten-free cookies, easy baking, lemon dessert

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/lemon-meltaways/