Description
Meyer Lemon Meltaways are delicate, buttery cookies infused with fresh Meyer lemon zest and juice. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are lightly sweetened and coated in powdered sugar, making them perfect for holiday gifting or any time you crave a refreshing citrus dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon finely grated Meyer lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh Meyer lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Coating
- 1/2 cup additional powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air to ensure soft cookies.
- Add Lemon and Vanilla: Mix in the finely grated Meyer lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined, distributing the citrus flavor evenly throughout the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even seasoning.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet lemon mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms to avoid overworking which can toughen cookies.
- Shape and Chill: Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm enough to slice.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Slice and Bake: Remove chilled dough from the refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet spaced slightly apart. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a light golden color.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then carefully toss them in the remaining powdered sugar while still warm to achieve the signature meltaway coating.
- Cool Completely: Transfer the coated cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing, ensuring the coating sets properly.
Notes
- These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to 1 week, maintaining freshness.
- For extra lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract directly to the dough during mixing.
- You can roll the cookies in powdered sugar a second time once they’ve fully cooled for a snowier finish and enhanced sweetness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
