Melting moment lemon stars

Melting moment lemon stars are buttery cookies bursting with citrus flavors from lemon zest and vanilla. They are easy to make and have a tender texture that melts in your mouth, perfect for any occasion.

01 Feb 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1/3 cup vanilla extract
2 tbsp lemon zest

Melting moment lemon stars are delightful, buttery cookies that simply melt in your mouth. Made with a perfect blend of lemon zest and vanilla, these cookies offer a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs wonderfully with their rich, tender texture. They’re an excellent treat for any occasion, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the Butter and Sugar Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup (54g) of butter and 1 cup (160g) of powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.

3. Add the Flavorings:
Add 1 tsp (4g) of vanilla extract and 2 tbsp (30g) of lemon zest to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until evenly combined.

4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
Slowly add 2 cups (250g) of all-purpose flour and 1/3 cup (50g) of cornstarch to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are just combined and a dough forms.

5. Shape the Cookies:
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about a 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thickness. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies. Place the cookies onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.

6. Bake:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to be soft and melt-in-your-mouth.

7. Cool:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Serve:
Once cooled, the cookies are ready to be enjoyed. These melting moment lemon stars are perfect with a cup of tea or as a delightful treat any time of the day.

These melting moment lemon stars are not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring you can whip up a batch anytime you wish. Their melt-in-your-mouth quality and zesty lemon flavor are sure to impress your family and friends, making them a go-to recipe for both casual and special gatherings.

Melting moment lemon stars FAQ:

What is the baking time for Melting Moment Lemon Stars?

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be soft with just a hint of golden edges.

How should I store Melting Moment Lemon Stars?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain fresh for up to a week, or you can refrigerate them for prolonged freshness.

Can I substitute cornstarch in this recipe?

Yes, if you don’t have cornstarch, you can replace it with an equal amount of additional all-purpose flour. However, this might slightly alter the texture.

How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges start to turn golden brown but the centers should remain soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon zest?

Using lemon juice is not recommended as a direct substitute. Lemon zest provides the oils and flavor that enhance the cookies, which juice does not. Stick to zest for the best results.

Tips:

- Ensure the butter is at room temperature before you start mixing; this helps in achieving a smooth, creamy texture.

- For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding extra lemon zest to the dough.

- Use a star-shaped cookie cutter for a festive appearance, but any shape will do if you don't have a specific cutter.

- Chill the dough for about 15 minutes before rolling it out; this makes it easier to handle and cut into shapes.

- To evenly bake the cookies, ensure they are all of the same thickness and size.

- Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be a light golden color and not browned.

- Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 330kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 1.25g
Sugar 27g
Fat 8g

Melting moment lemon stars