A delightful addition to any dessert spread, meltaway cookies are true to their name—thanks to the ingenious addition of cornstarch, these buttery bites quite literally melt on your tongue.
Five basic pantry staples and 35 minutes are all you’ll need to make this recipe. The result? A whopping seven dozen of the most delicate and light cookies you’ve ever tasted. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a baking novice, these meltaways promise to become your secret weapon for impressing guests or treating yourself to a much-needed sweet treat.
Ingredients for Meltaway Cookies
- Butter: A cup of softened butter forms the base of these meltaway cookies, contributing to their melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Confectioners’ sugar:Â Also known as powdered sugar, it imparts a lighter texture to the dough compared with granulated sugar.
- Vanilla extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of these meltaway cookies.
- Flour: A cup of all-purpose flour provides structure to the cookies without being too dense.
- Cornstarch:Â The secret ingredient that gives these cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Cornstarch also prevents the dough from spreading as it bakes.
Directions
Step 1: Cream the butter and sugar
Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, cream the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract until it’s fully incorporated.
Step 2: Combine the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
Step 3: Shape and bake the cookies
Place 1/2-teaspoon scoops of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, with 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly browned.
Editor’s Tip: Overbaking meltaway cookies can affect their delicate texture; the tops should remain pale while baking.
Step 4: Cool and serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Meltaway Cookie Variations
- Add a hint of citrus: For a refreshing citrus twist to these meltaway cookies, add a teaspoon of freshly grated lemon or orange zest to the dough.
- Use different extracts: Swap the vanilla extract for almond, lemon or even coconut extract for a different flavor profile.
- Top with a glaze: For an even sweeter treat, decorate the cookies with a simple vanilla drizzle.
- Switch up the flavor:Â For a refreshing holiday twist, top the cookies with peppermint frosting and a layer of crushed peppermint candies.
How to Store Meltaway Cookies
Meltaway cookies are really easy to store. Allow them to cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the fridge for up to two months.
Can you freeze meltaway cookies?
You can also easily freeze meltaway cookies for up to a year. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge.
Meltaway Cookie Tips
Can you use granulated sugar in meltaway cookies?
In order for meltaway cookies to have their signature texture, you need to use confectioners’ sugar. Granulated sugar will result in cookies with a denser texture. Don’t sweat if you don’t have confectioners’ sugar in the pantry—you can easily make powdered sugar by adding granulated sugar to the blender and keeping it running until it turns into a fine powder.
What does cornstarch do in meltaway cookies?
A versatile baking ingredient, cornstarch works as a binding agent in the cookie dough. It also prevents the cookies from spreading in the oven, allowing them to remain soft and thick as they bake. Cornstarch is also the key ingredient that gives these cookies their distinctive melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What toppings can you use for meltaway cookies?
For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle the cookies with cinnamon sugar before baking. You can also drizzle the cooled meltaway cookies with a simple glaze.
