Melting Moments

Melting Moments are soft, buttery cookies that literally melt in the mouth with every bite. I love their delicate crumb and rich flavor—perfect for tea time, holidays, or just a little everyday indulgence. They’re classic, elegant, and surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these cookies because they’re simple but feel luxurious. The texture is incredibly tender thanks to the combination of cornstarch and butter. I can enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or sandwiched with a tangy lemon or vanilla buttercream. No matter how I serve them, they always deliver melt-in-the-mouth bliss.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookies:

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

• All-purpose flour

• Cornstarch

• Salt

Optional filling (for sandwich style):

• Unsalted butter

• Powdered sugar

• Lemon juice or vanilla extract

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, I cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.

3. I add vanilla extract, then sift in the flour, cornstarch, and salt. I mix just until a soft dough forms.

4. I roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

5. I flatten each cookie slightly with a fork or the bottom of a glass.

6. I bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are just starting to turn golden.

7. I let the cookies cool completely before handling—they’re delicate when warm.

8. If making sandwich cookies, I beat together the butter, powdered sugar, and flavoring for the filling, then gently spread or pipe it between two cookies.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20 cookies (10 sandwiches or 20 singles). It takes 15 minutes to prep and 12–15 minutes to bake.

Variations

I like adding lemon zest to the dough for a fresh twist or dipping the edges in melted chocolate for a more decadent touch. Sometimes I fill them with raspberry jam or a coffee-flavored buttercream. And if I want a festive version, I dust them with powdered sugar and a touch of cinnamon.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If filled with buttercream, I refrigerate them and bring them to room temperature before serving. They don’t need reheating—just a soft bite and they melt away.

FAQs

Why are they called “Melting Moments”?

They get their name from their incredibly soft texture. Thanks to the cornstarch and butter, they literally melt in the mouth.

Can I freeze them?

Yes. I freeze the unfilled cookies in a sealed container and thaw them at room temperature. I add the filling after they’ve thawed.

What’s the difference between Melting Moments and shortbread?

Melting Moments use more cornstarch and powdered sugar, which gives them a finer, more tender texture compared to traditional shortbread.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, I substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, making sure it includes a binder like xanthan gum.

Are they too sweet?

Not at all. They’re delicately sweet, especially when served plain. The optional filling adds more sweetness if desired.

Conclusion

Melting Moments are the kind of cookie I make when I want something simple yet indulgent. They’re buttery, tender, and just the right size for a satisfying bite. Whether I enjoy them plain or filled, they always leave me wanting just one more.

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