Meyer Lemon Meltaways Recipes
Meyer Lemon Meltaways are delicate, buttery cookies that melt in your mouth with every bite. Infused with the bright, sweet notes of Meyer lemons, they offer a perfect balance of citrusy freshness and tender, crumbly texture. Their light, elegant flavor makes them a sophisticated treat for tea time, dessert tables, or gifting to loved ones.
Simple to prepare yet impressive in taste, these meltaways showcase the unique sweetness of Meyer lemons in a soft, buttery cookie. Perfect for spring and summer, they bring a refreshing, vibrant touch to any occasion and are sure to delight family and friends with their melt-in-the-mouth charm.
Ingredients Needed
To make Meyer lemon meltaways, you will need a combination of fresh ingredients for the cookie base and a simple glaze. Below is a table showing the ingredients with approximate calorie values.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories Approx |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 2 cups | 880 |
| Unsalted butter softened | 1 cup | 810 |
| Powdered sugar | ¾ cup | 300 |
| Meyer lemon zest | 2 teaspoons | 6 |
| Lemon juice freshly squeezed | 1 tablespoon | 4 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | 0 |
| Powdered sugar for glaze | ½ cup | 195 |
| Meyer lemon juice for glaze | 1 tablespoon | 4 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the Meyer lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Mix gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid over mixing to ensure the cookies remain tender and melt in the mouth.
Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Press each ball slightly to flatten the top for even baking.
Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Prepare the Lemon Glaze
While the cookies are cooling, mix powdered sugar and Meyer lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency with a little more juice or sugar if needed.
Glaze and Serve
Drizzle or brush the lemon glaze over the cooled cookies. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. The Meyer lemon meltaways are now ready to enjoy with their delicate, buttery texture and refreshing citrus taste.
Tips for customizing the Recipe
You can easily adjust Meyer lemon meltaways to suit your taste or occasion. For a stronger lemon aroma, add extra zest or a little more fresh lemon juice to the dough. This enhances the citrus notes and makes each bite more vibrant.
The glaze can be flavored with a splash of vanilla or a hint of almond extract for a unique twist. You can also dip the cookies partially in melted white chocolate or sprinkle finely chopped nuts on top for added texture and visual appeal.
For a lighter version, reduce the sugar slightly in the dough and glaze. These small changes allow you to personalize the cookies while keeping them soft, tender, and full of refreshing Meyer lemon taste.
Nutritional Information
Meyer lemon meltaways are delicate cookies that provide a combination of carbohydrates and fats, giving a soft and tender texture. The butter contributes healthy fats and richness, while the powdered sugar adds sweetness and energy. The flour provides the structure, creating cookies that melt in the mouth with each bite.
The addition of Meyer lemon juice and zest offers a small amount of vitamin C and a bright citrus taste, balancing the sweetness with a refreshing note. Despite being a treat, these cookies are light and portion friendly, making them suitable for sharing or enjoying with tea or coffee.
For those seeking a slightly lighter option, you can reduce the sugar in the dough or glaze without significantly affecting the texture or taste. This allows the cookies to remain tender and flavorful while lowering the overall calorie content.
Serving Suggestion
Meyer lemon meltaways are best served at room temperature to enjoy their soft, buttery texture and bright citrus aroma. Arrange the cookies on a plate or a decorative tray for a simple yet elegant presentation. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk for a refreshing treat.
For an extra touch, drizzle additional lemon glaze over individual cookies or sprinkle lightly with finely chopped nuts or lemon zest. These cookies also make a beautiful addition to a dessert platter or gift box, perfect for sharing at gatherings or giving as a thoughtful homemade treat.
How to Store and Keep Fresh
Allow Meyer lemon meltaways to cool completely before storing to maintain their soft and tender texture. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to five days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies by placing them in a sealed freezer safe container for up to two months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving to enjoy their delicate texture and bright citrus taste.
Conclusion
Meyer lemon meltaways are delicate cookies that combine a soft, buttery texture with a bright and refreshing citrus taste. Their tender, melt in the mouth consistency and subtle sweetness make them perfect for tea time, brunch, or as a light dessert. Each bite offers a sophisticated balance of richness and freshness that is both satisfying and elegant.
These cookies are simple to prepare and versatile enough to be customized with different glazes, extracts, or toppings. Serving them at room temperature enhances their flavor and texture, making them an ideal treat for gatherings, gifting, or simply enjoying at home. Baking Meyer lemon meltaways at home ensures a fresh, flavorful, and visually appealing dessert that impresses every time.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make Meyer lemon meltaways ahead of time
Yes, you can bake the cookies a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and add the glaze just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Q2: Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons
Absolutely, you can substitute regular lemons, though the cookies may be slightly more tart. Adjust the sugar or zest to balance the flavor according to your preference.
Q3: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking
Chill the dough for about 15 to 20 minutes before shaping the cookies. This helps them hold their shape and ensures a tender, melt in the mouth texture.
