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These melting moments cookies are the perfect treat for the holiday season or any time you want a tender, melt in your mouth cookie. Their delicate crumbly texture and buttery flavor make them irresistibly soft and light. You will find yourself reaching for more than one, and they pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or a glass of milk. This recipe is straightforward yet yields bakery quality cookies that bring joy to every bite.
I first baked these on a chilly winter afternoon and was amazed at how something so simple could taste so delicate and delicious. Now they are my go to cookie when I want a light, buttery treat that feels special.
Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: provides rich flavor and tender crumb. Use high quality butter for the best taste and make sure it is softened to blend easily
- Powdered Sugar: adds sweetness and helps create the airy, soft texture of the cookie
- Pure Vanilla Extract: enhances the buttery flavor with a warm, aromatic note
- All Purpose Flour: offers structure and shape to the cookies. Choose a fresh batch of flour for better texture
- Cornstarch: the secret ingredient that gives these cookies their unique melt in your mouth consistency by lightening the flour mixture
- Salt: balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors fully since unsalted butter is used
- Powdered Sugar for Dusting: adds a pretty snowy finish and extra sweetness after baking
Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Getting this done upfront sets the stage for smooth baking without interruptions.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air that contributes to the cookie’s delicate texture. Then mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together all purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures the salt and cornstarch are evenly distributed, helping create uniform texture and flavor in each cookie.
- Mix Dry Ingredients into Butter Mixture:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix which can develop the gluten too much and result in tougher cookies. The dough should stay soft and slightly crumbly.
- Form the Cookie Dough Balls:
- Using about one tablespoon of dough per cookie, roll into one inch balls. Place them spaced about two inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Lightly press each ball down with a fork without flattening too much to keep their shape intact when baking.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Put the baking sheets on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for about ten minutes until the cookies look set but are still very soft to the touch. Avoid overbaking to maintain the melt in your mouth texture.
- Cool and Dust with Sugar:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes to firm up enough to move. Carefully transfer them with a thin spatula to a cooling rack. While still warm, generously dust with powdered sugar. If the sugar melts, add another dusting once they are fully cooled to get a snowy look.
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I personally love the cornstarch in this recipe because it is the magic behind the cookie’s softness and crumbly texture. One holiday season, I brought a batch to a family gathering and watched them disappear in minutes. It reminded me that simple ingredients, handled with care, make the most memorable homemade treats.
Storage Tips
To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. When storing, placing a sheet of parchment paper between layers helps prevent sticking. These cookies also freeze well—place them in a freezer safe container or bag and dust with powdered sugar again after thawing to restore their snowy finish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have cornstarch, try using potato starch or arrowroot powder as a substitute, but expect a slightly different texture. For a dairy free version, use vegan butter, but slow down the creaming process slightly as vegan butters can vary in moisture content. You can also play with vanilla extract by adding a hint of almond or citrus extract to give a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Melting moments cookies are lovely with a cup of tea or coffee, especially in the afternoon. For a festive treat, serve with strawberry jam or lemon curd to complement the buttery softness. They also make a beautiful addition to holiday cookie trays or gift boxes. Dust with extra powdered sugar for a snowy look or decorate lightly with sprinkles for a cheerful touch.
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These melting moments are an effortless, elegant cookie to add to any holiday platter. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for the perfect snowy finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → How should I store melting moments?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Can these cookies be frozen?
Yes, both baked cookies and dough can be frozen. Wrap the dough tightly and thaw before baking; baked cookies freeze well for up to 3 months.
- → Is it possible to add frosting or glaze?
Adding a lemon glaze or icing works well, but it may soften the texture if stored for days afterwards.
- → Why use cornstarch in the dough?
Cornstarch contributes to the cookies’ crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture, elevating them beyond typical cookies.
- → Any tips to prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for 30-60 minutes before baking to keep the shape firm and prevent excessive spreading.