Classic sweet melting moments

These classic melting moments cookies are buttery and tender treats that practically dissolve on your tongue. Filled with a zesty lemon buttercream, they are a simple yet elegant dessert that takes just six ingredients and about half an hour to prepare.

Ingredients

• Butter for the cookies: use unsalted and softened for the creamiest dough and best flavor
• Icing sugar: is key here because it blends smoothly into the dough ensuring a fine texture
• Vanilla extract: adds warmth and depth balancing the sweetness
• Plain flour: forms the base of these cookies sift it for lightness
• Cornflour: makes the cookie tender and melt-in-the-mouth by softening the structure
• Butter (for the lemon buttercream): should be unsalted and softened to mix seamlessly
• Icing sugar (for the frosting): sweetens without grittiness
• Lemon zest and juice: provide bright citrus notes to contrast the rich buttercream
• Vanilla extract (for the frosting): is optional but adds a nice subtle undertone

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sift and Prepare:

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius or 160 fan forced. Line two baking sheets with baking paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a large bowl use an electric beater or stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Beat together the softened butter and icing sugar until the mixture is pale and creamy which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Combine Flours:

Sift plain flour and cornflour into the bowl. Mix on low speed just until the flour is incorporated and you see no pockets of butter. Take care not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.

Shape Cookies:

Lightly dust your hands with flour. Using about 3 teaspoons of dough roll into balls. Arrange the balls on the prepared trays spacing them about one and a half inches apart so they bake evenly.

Press and Flatten:

Dip a fork in flour and gently press down on each dough ball to flatten to half the height and about 4 centimeters wide. Re-flour the fork between each cookie to prevent sticking.

Bake:

Place trays in the oven and bake the cookies for 14 to 15 minutes. They should just start to turn a pale golden color around the edges. Remove them from the oven and allow to cool on the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Lemon Buttercream:

In a clean bowl beat together the softened butter, icing sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract if using. Beat until the mixture is light and creamy scraping down the sides as needed.

Assemble:

Spread or pipe lemon buttercream onto the flat side of half the cooled cookies. Top each with another cookie to make sandwiches.

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Storage Tips

Store Melting Moments in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their delicate texture. You can also freeze the cooled cookies, separately or assembled, for up to a month. If freezing the assembled cookies, wrap them tightly to prevent the buttercream from drying out. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy that signature melt-in-the-mouth softness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have cornflour substitute half of it with rice flour which also helps keep the cookies tender. You can swap lemon juice for lime or orange juice in the frosting for a different citrus twist. Use vanilla bean paste instead of extract for a more intense vanilla flavor. Brown butter in place of regular butter adds a lovely nutty depth but expect a slightly darker cookie.

Serving Suggestions

Melting Moments are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee in the afternoon. They also make elegant finger food at parties or bridal showers. For a festive touch sprinkle a little extra lemon zest or dust with icing sugar before serving. Pair with fresh berries or a light citrus curd for added color and flavor contrast.

Pro Tips

For the best texture beat the butter and sugar until very pale and fluffy which incorporates air into the dough. Don’t skip dusting your hands and fork with flour when shaping the cookies to prevent sticking and ensure neat cookie shapes. Always weigh your ingredients where possible for consistent results as measuring by volume can vary especially for flour and sugar.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes these cookies melt in the mouth?

The combination of cornflour and plain flour creates a tender, crumbly texture that softly dissolves on biting.

→ How does the lemon buttercream enhance the flavor?

Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the rich, creamy butter, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweet, soft cookies.

→ Can I prepare the buttercream in advance?

Yes, the lemon buttercream keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days. Bring it to room temperature and whisk before use.

→ What is the best way to shape the cookies evenly?

Using a small cookie scoop ensures uniform size and even baking, making assembly simpler.

→ How do I prevent the cookies from becoming tough?

Mix the dough just until combined and avoid overbeating—this preserves the desired delicate texture.