Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies – Light, Buttery & Delicate!

These ultra-tender lemon cookies literally melt in your mouth, with a bright citrus flavor and a delicate, crumbly texture. Finished with a sweet-tart lemon glaze, they’re perfect for tea time, spring gatherings, or as a cheerful homemade gift!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – Like shortbread meets lemon heaven
Bright & Zesty – Packed with fresh lemon flavor
Easy to Make – No fancy techniques needed
Great for Gifting – Pretty, delicate, and irresistible

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • ½ tsp salt

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. Beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (~3 mins).
  2. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
  3. Gradually add flour, cornstarch, and salt, mixing just until combined.

Step 2: Chill & Shape

  1. Divide dough in half, roll into two 1.5-inch logs, and wrap in plastic.
  2. Refrigerate 1 hour (or freeze 30 mins) until firm.

Step 3: Slice & Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. Slice logs into ¼-inch rounds and place on the sheet.
  3. Bake 10-12 minutes until edges are just golden.

Step 4: Glaze & Serve

  1. Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
  2. Sprinkle with extra zest if desired.

Tips for the Best Meltaways

🔹 Don’t Overbake – They should stay pale for maximum tenderness.
🔹 Extra Zing? Add ½ tsp lemon extract to the dough.
🔹 Storage – Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with earl grey tea or iced lemonade.
  • Package in a pretty tin for a thoughtful gift.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Meltaway Cookies are sunshine in every bite—light, citrusy, and impossibly delicate. One taste and you’ll be hooked!

Bake, share, and enjoy! 🍋✨🍪

Leave a Comment