Golden Meltaways are delicate, buttery cookies that truly live up to their name. Known for their light texture and melt-in-your-mouth quality, they are a perfect treat for tea parties, holidays, or simply as an afternoon indulgence. Their golden color comes from a balance of butter, sugar, and flour that creates a crisp exterior with a soft, tender bite. Often dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies are not only beautiful to serve but also irresistible in flavor. Simple to prepare yet impressive in presentation, Golden Meltaways are timeless classics that blend comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cornstarch. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough into small 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before rolling or dusting with powdered sugar. Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Servings
Makes 24 cookies
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 110
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 35mg
Notes
These cookies are delicate and should be handled carefully after baking to avoid breaking. Cornstarch is the secret ingredient that gives Golden Meltaways their light texture. For best results, ensure your butter is properly softened but not melted. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.
Tips
For extra flavor, add a hint of almond extract along with vanilla. If you prefer a festive twist, roll the cookies in colored sugar instead of powdered sugar. To ensure even baking, keep the cookie sizes uniform. For a nutty variation, fold in finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Freezing the dough for 10 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape.
Health Benefits
While Golden Meltaways are a sweet indulgence, they can still offer small benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Butter provides fat-soluble vitamins such as A and D, while the small portion sizes help with portion control. The simplicity of ingredients ensures there are no artificial additives, making them a cleaner dessert option compared to packaged cookies. Sharing them in gatherings also brings emotional benefits by creating joyful memories. For a slightly healthier twist, you can use whole wheat pastry flour or add ground nuts for extra nutrients and fiber.
Q & A
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dough can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.
Q: Can I freeze Golden Meltaways?
A: Absolutely. Both the unbaked dough balls and the baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Q: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
A: Chilling the dough briefly before baking helps them hold their shape better.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace regular flour.
Q: Do these cookies pair well with beverages?
A: Golden Meltaways are perfect with tea, coffee, or even a glass of warm milk, enhancing their delicate flavor.