Meltaways (Cookies)
Delicate meltaway cookies with a buttery texture and nutty flavor, coated in powdered sugar. Perfect for holidays, gifts, or a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine oleo (butter), flour, sugar, and chopped pecans in a bowl and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Press down each ball slightly to flatten.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
- Allow cookies to cool, then roll in powdered sugar again before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. If you want a nut-free version, you can substitute chopped pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Ensure not to overmix the dough to maintain a tender texture. For added sweetness, you can mix a little vanilla extract into the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These meltaway cookies are delightful on their own or can be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a sweet afternoon treat. For a festive touch, serve them as part of a dessert platter during holiday gatherings alongside Sharon'S Pecan Pie Squares. They also make a lovely gift when packaged in a decorative tin.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meltaways (Cookies) contains roughly 297 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze meltaway cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and roll them in powdered sugar before serving.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can replace the pecans with chopped walnuts, almonds, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. For a completely nut-free option, consider using seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added texture.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of the meltaways, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the dough. You could also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy taste. Additionally, rolling the cookies in flavored powdered sugar, such as vanilla or cocoa, can add a delicious twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).