Pastel Meltaways
Soft, buttery meltaways with a delicate powdered sugar coating, perfect for sweet snacking or gifting, appealing to those who love melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a light crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine butter and powdered sugar.
- Blend thoroughly.
- Stir in cornstarch and flour.
- If necessary, chill dough 30 minutes for easier handling.
- Shape the dough into small rounds about the size of a nickel, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 10 to 13 minutes.
- Lightly brown around the edges.
- Let cool and frost if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the butter is softened but not melted. If you want a twist, consider substituting half the cornstarch with almond flour for a nutty flavor. Chilling the dough helps with shaping, so don't skip that step if your kitchen is warm. For a fun variation, add lemon or almond extract to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These meltaways are delightful on their own or dusted with additional powdered sugar. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings. For a festive touch, consider frosting them with a light glaze or serving alongside a rich Sour Cream Jello Mold for a delightful dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pastel Meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in a low oven for a few minutes to restore their delicate texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pastel Meltaways contains roughly 312 calories, with 2g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 20g fat.
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 use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, but the texture may vary. Ensure that the blend you choose has a similar fat content to regular flour to maintain the melt-in-your-mouth quality.
How can I enhance the flavor of the meltaways?
Adding extracts like vanilla, almond, or citrus zest can elevate the flavor profile. For a fun twist, consider incorporating finely chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly and won't hold together, try adding a teaspoon of milk or water gradually until it comes together. Be careful not to add too much, as this can alter the texture.
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).