Name: Meyer Lemon Meltaways
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour; 1/2 cup Cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup Powdered sugar (Plus more for dusting); 1/4 cup Granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons Fresh Meyer lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

Imagine biting into a tender, buttery cookie that quite literally melts on your tongue, flooding your senses with sweet lemony goodness. That’s the magic of Meyer Lemon Meltaways—a treat as delightful in flavor as it is quick to prepare. Long cherished in my family for their irresistibly bright, citrusy flavor, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies have a way of brightening even the dullest day. Did you know the Meyer lemon is a cross between a lemon and a mandarin orange? That little bit of sweet complexity makes these cookies sing!

Why are these so special? Besides being effortlessly simple and perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous celebrations, Meyer Lemon Meltaways hold a nostalgic charm. Whenever I crave a delicate dessert (that doesn’t call for hours in the kitchen), these always deliver, just like my famous Lemon Sugar Bars from last spring’s recipe archive. If you loved those, wait until you try these! Ready to whisk up some zesty sunshine? Let’s get baking—this is one recipe you won’t want to miss.

What is Meyer Lemon Meltaways?

Let’s get straight to the “zest” of the matter—what exactly are Meyer Lemon Meltaways? The name says it all! These cookies are so soft and airy, they practically dissolve as soon as you take a bite—almost as if they “melt away.” Ever wondered why these treats are the life of every cookie exchange? It’s not just their cute size or cheerful lemon scent; it’s that impossibly soft texture. In my house, we always joke, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” With Meltaways, you’ll win over everyone around the table, guaranteed! Curious? Get your apron ready and try these today!

Why You’ll Love This:

There are so many reasons to adore Meyer Lemon Meltaways. First, their main highlight: that incomparable citrus burst balanced by an ultra-buttery, shortbread-like crumb. Forget store-bought lemon treats—homemade means you get fresher flavor and better texture, all while saving a few bucks. The ingredients are pantry staples, and the only “splurge” is those sweet, floral Meyer lemons. Add a snowy powdered sugar coating, and you have a picture-perfect treat worthy of any dessert table.

What truly sets these apart—besides their irresistible flavor—is how quick and fuss-free they are. You can whip them up in under an hour, no chilling or complicated steps required. If zesty citrus is your jam, you’ll also love my Lemon Ricotta Cookies—a reader favorite, and a great companion recipe to try next. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a little lemony love!

How to Make:

Quick Overview

Making Meyer Lemon Meltaways is easier than you might think! These cookies come together in just 15 minutes of hands-on prep, followed by a quick bake. What makes them special? Their light-as-air texture, zesty (yet mellow) citrus aroma, and the cloud of powdered sugar on top. With no complicated equipment or chilling steps, this recipe is as simple as mix, shape, and bake. Ready in about 30 minutes, they’re perfect for busy bakers and spontaneous cravings.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
2 tablespoons fresh Meyer lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar together until creamy and smooth (about 2-3 minutes).
Add the Meyer lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing—the dough should be soft but not sticky.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Gently flatten each ball with your palm or the bottom of a glass, just enough to create a thick disc.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
While still a little warm, dust generously with powdered sugar. For an extra snowy finish, dust again once cooled.
Enjoy immediately, or store for a lemony treat all week!

What to Serve With

These cheery cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniment takes them to another level. A cup of hot tea—especially Earl Grey or chamomile—brings out the lemony notes perfectly. For a light dessert spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a tangy fruit salad. Planning an afternoon gathering? Pair with my Blueberry Scones or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. They also make a lovely addition to holiday cookie trays or picnic baskets!

Top Tips for Perfecting Meyer Lemon Meltaways

If you can’t find Meyer lemons, regular lemons work in a pinch, though the cookies will be a bit more tart.
For extra flavor, mix in a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh mint or lavender.
Be careful not to overbake—these cookies should stay pale to keep their meltaway texture.
Ensure your butter is softened, not melted; too soft and the dough will spread too much.
Want a gluten-free version? Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store your Meyer Lemon Meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge for up to one week, or freeze in a zip-top bag for up to two months—just layer parchment between the cookies so they don’t stick! To enjoy from frozen, let them thaw at room temperature, then dust with a little extra powdered sugar for that fresh-from-the-oven finish. These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature; no reheating required!

FAQs

Can I substitute Meyer lemons with regular lemons?
Yes, you can! Just expect a slightly tangier flavor since Meyer lemons are sweeter and less acidic. You might want to add a pinch of extra sugar if using regular lemons.

Why do my cookies spread too much in the oven?
This usually means the butter was too soft or the dough was overmixed. Try chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes if your kitchen is warm.

Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Absolutely! Shape the dough into balls and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the bake time.

Do these cookies work with gluten-free flour?
Yes, most good-quality gluten-free flour blends will work. The texture may be a little softer, but they’ll still taste delicious!

Are Meyer Lemon Meltaways suitable for gifting?
Definitely! They pack and travel well, and look beautiful with a dusting of powdered sugar. Wrap them up in a cute tin or box for the perfect homemade gift.

Conclusion

Meyer Lemon Meltaways are the kind of treat that’s impossible to eat just one—zesty, buttery, and perfectly sweet, they’re a must-try for any lemon lover. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a quiet afternoon escape, these cookies are sure to brighten your day. Simple to make, picture-perfect to serve, and endlessly versatile, they’re the dessert you’ll return to again and again. Don’t forget to check out my other citrus-inspired favorites for more baking inspiration—and happy snacking!