Nothing beats the refreshing taste of lemon in a soft, buttery cookie. These Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies are light, delicate, and truly melt in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion—spring brunches, afternoon tea, holiday cookie trays, or just a personal treat—these cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Plus, they’re super easy to make with ingredients you likely already have at home!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Soft, buttery texture that melts in your mouth
- Fresh, bright lemon flavor
- Simple recipe with common ingredients
- Great for gifting, parties, or everyday snacks
- Freeze well for future enjoyment
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Extra powdered sugar for coating
How to Make Lemon Meltaway Cookies
1. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes with an electric mixer).
2. Add the Lemon Flavor
Mix in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined and fragrant.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.
5. Preheat and Shape
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake
Bake for 12-14 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale. Let them cool slightly.
7. Coat in Powdered Sugar
While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Once fully cooled, roll them again for a delicate, snowy finish.
Tips for Perfect Meltaway Cookies
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough—this keeps the cookies from spreading.
- Double coat in powdered sugar for a perfect melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.
- Freeze extra dough balls and bake fresh whenever you crave them!
What to Serve with Lemon Meltaway Cookies
- A hot cup of tea or coffee
- Fresh berries or berry compote for an elegant touch
- Lemon sorbet or vanilla ice cream for a citrusy dessert combo
- A glass of sparkling wine for a special brunch treat
A Bright and Buttery Favorite
These Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies are easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy. Try adding your own twist—maybe a citrus glaze or a mix of different citrus zests! No matter how you make them, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.
