Irresistible Lemon Meltaways – The Dreamiest, Buttery Cookies You’ll Ever Taste!

Thank you for stopping by my kitchen today! I’m so excited to share a cookie recipe that’s become a staple in my home — these Lemon Meltaways. They’re buttery, soft, and truly melt-in-your-mouth good! Each bite tastes like sunshine — sweet, delicate, and bursting with fresh lemon zest.

If you’ve been looking for a cookie that feels both classic and special, this is it. These are perfect for afternoon tea, spring gatherings, or as a bright addition to your holiday cookie box.

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Overview of Recipe Content

What Are Lemon Meltaways?

Lemon Meltaways are small, shortbread-style cookies dusted with powdered sugar. They’re tender, crumbly, and dissolve beautifully with each bite. The dough is lightly flavored with lemon zest and a hint of cornstarch — the secret ingredient that gives these cookies their signature “meltaway” texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery-soft texture — literally melts in your mouth.
• Bright, lemony flavor — perfectly balanced, not too tart.
• Pretty and giftable — they look like they came from a bakery.
• Quick & simple — only 10 ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.

What They Taste Like

Imagine the perfect shortbread kissed by sunshine — buttery, lightly sweet, with a whisper of lemon that lingers on your tongue. These cookies are soft yet delicate, and their powdery sugar coating gives them a cloud-like sweetness.

Health and Seasonal Relevance

They’re a cheerful treat for spring and summer, though I also bake them in winter when I crave something bright. Use organic lemons for maximum zest flavor and freshness!

Ingredients

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You’ll need:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch (the secret ingredient!)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Tools You’ll Need

• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Fine mesh sifter for dusting sugar

Suggested Substitutions and Additions

• Swap lemon for lime or orange zest for a citrus twist.
• Add poppy seeds for a classic lemon-poppy pairing.
• Replace half the butter with cream cheese for a richer flavor.

How to Make Lemon Meltaways

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Let’s bake sunshine together!

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes. This creates that dreamy meltaway texture.

Step 2: Add Lemon Flavor

Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The aroma here is pure happiness — like fresh lemonade on a summer day.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into small 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly with your fingertips.

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just set — not browned.

Step 6: Dust with Sugar

Let cookies cool for a few minutes, then dust generously with powdered sugar. For a double-dust effect, let them cool completely and dust again!

What to Serve with Lemon Meltaways

• A pot of Earl Grey tea or chamomile
• A scoop of lemon sorbet for a refreshing dessert plate
• Serve alongside Classic Lemon Bars or Blueberry Scones for a citrus-themed brunch

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Always use room-temperature butter for the best texture.
• Do not overbake — they should remain pale and tender.
• Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
• For an extra flavor kick, try a pinch of lemon extract.

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place baked cookies in layers separated by parchment paper and freeze up to 2 months. Dust with sugar after thawing for a fresh look.

General Information

These cookies trace their name to how they melt away on your tongue. The recipe has been around since mid-century America, often appearing in holiday cookie tins or bridal showers. Today, they remain timeless — elegant and comforting, no matter the season.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking.

2. Can I substitute gluten-free flour?
Absolutely — use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for best results.

3. Why cornstarch?
Cornstarch gives that signature meltaway texture by lightening the dough.

4. Can I add a glaze?
Yes! Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice for a light drizzle.

5. How do I make them extra lemony?
Add a touch of lemon extract or more zest to taste.

Conclusion

These Lemon Meltaways are sunshine in cookie form — buttery, tender, and blissfully lemony. Whether for afternoon tea or holiday baking, they’ll charm everyone who takes a bite.

If you loved this recipe, try:

• Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
• Soft Butter Cookies

Thank you for baking with me today — I can’t wait to see your creations!

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Interactive Elements

Did you make these cookies?
Please leave a comment below or tag your photos on Pinterest — I love seeing your beautiful bakes!

Nutritional Information

Serving	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Sugar	Protein
1 cookie	110	7g	11g	5g	1g

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