Ingredients
For the Cookies:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Glaze (Optional):
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together with a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest until fully incorporated.
Add Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing.
Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough into two portions and shape each into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Slice and Bake:
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake.
Cool:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Lemon Glaze (Optional):
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more sugar or juice if needed.
Decorate and Serve:
Drizzle or dip the cooled cookies with the lemon glaze, and sprinkle with additional lemon zest if desired.
Allow the glaze to set for about 20 minutes before serving.
Tips:
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Make Ahead: The dough can be frozen for up to 1 month. Slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time.
Extra Zing: Add a pinch of lemon extract to the glaze for an extra citrus kick.
Enjoy your delightful Zesty Lemon Meltaway Cookies!