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ZESTY LEMON MELTAWAY COOKIES

Sana Umer
These Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies are light, buttery, and citrusy. With a delicate crumb and bright lemon flavor, they melt in your mouth, making them perfect for tea time, holiday treats, or gifting to loved ones.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 140 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 large egg
  • Optional: extra powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Make the Dough:

  • In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract; mix until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until dough forms.

Shape the Cookies:

  • Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Optional: Roll in extra powdered sugar for a classic meltaway finish. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.

Bake:

  • Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a subtle twist.
  • Serving Suggestions: Perfect with tea, coffee, or as a holiday cookie gift.
  • Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Keyword citrus cookies, easy lemon cookies, holiday lemon treats, lemon meltaway cookies, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, zesty cookies