Crumbly Lemon Meltaway Cookies Recipe

Soft, delicate, and bursting with citrus flavour, lemon meltaway cookies are the kind of treat that makes every bite unforgettable. With their crumbly texture that practically dissolves in your mouth, these cookies bring together the brightness of lemon with a buttery richness that keeps you reaching for more. They are lightly dusted with powdered sugar for the perfect sweet finish, making them as pretty as they are delicious.
These cookies are perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee. Their small size makes them a wonderful bite sized indulgence that feels special without being heavy. Whether you are baking them for friends, family, or just to treat yourself, lemon meltaway cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the refreshing taste of citrus in a cookie that is simple yet elegant.
Why You Need This Recipe

You need this recipe because it is quick, easy, and delivers bakery quality cookies with minimal effort. These lemon meltaway cookies are soft and buttery with a refreshing zing from fresh lemon juice and zest. They are perfect for gifting, entertaining, or enjoying as an everyday treat. Unlike ordinary cookies, they have a delicate crumbly texture that melts on the tongue, making them stand out from the usual batch of sweets.
Ingredients
The ingredients for these cookies are simple and easy to find, yet they create an irresistible treat. Below is a detailed table of ingredients with approximate calorie counts per serving
Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
---|---|---|
All purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups | 660 |
Cornstarch | 1/2 cup | 210 |
Unsalted butter | 1 cup | 1600 |
Powdered sugar | 1/2 cup | 240 |
Fresh lemon juice | 2 tbsp | 10 |
Lemon zest | 1 tbsp | 5 |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
Powdered sugar (for dusting) | 1/2 cup | 240 |
How to Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add in the lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch, then gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough into small balls and place them evenly spaced on the baking sheet. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden. Once cooled, generously coat the cookies in powdered sugar to achieve their signature meltaway finish.
Pro Tips
For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest rather than bottled versions, as they provide a brighter and more natural citrus taste. Make sure the butter is softened but not melted before mixing, which helps create the perfect crumbly texture. If you want even more lemon flavor, add a little extra zest to the dough or dust the cookies with powdered sugar mixed with finely grated lemon zest. To keep the cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making them a wonderful treat for a cozy afternoon. For a fancier touch, drizzle a light lemon glaze over the cookies to enhance the citrus flavour. Fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries also make a colourful and refreshing side. If you are serving them at a gathering, arrange them on a platter with other citrus desserts to create a bright and inviting display.
Conclusion
Crumbly lemon meltaway cookies are a delightful combination of buttery richness and refreshing citrus flavor. Their melt in your mouth texture makes them stand out from ordinary cookies and their simple preparation ensures you can enjoy them anytime. Whether you make them for special occasions or as a sweet everyday treat, these cookies are sure to impress with their light, crumbly texture and vibrant lemon taste.