Lemon Meltaways

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
    In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  2. Add the Lemon and Vanilla:
    Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt.
  4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
  5. Chill the Dough:
    Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or shape it into a log and wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. This step is crucial for shaping and baking.

Shaping and Baking

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Shape the Cookies:
    Roll the chilled dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) or slice the log into discs. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  3. Bake:
    Bake for 12–14 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The cookies should remain pale.

Coating

  1. Cool Slightly:
    Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  2. Dust with Powdered Sugar:
    While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar or use a sieve to dust them generously. Let the cookies cool completely, then give them a second coating of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
PREPARATION