Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly tender: Made with butter, powdered sugar, and cornstarch, these cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Simple and versatile: Easy to make with minimal ingredients, and customizable with your choice of sprinkles or nuts.
- Perfect for any occasion: Great for holidays, tea time, or gifting to loved ones.
- Quick preparation: Ready in just over 30 minutes, from mixing to icing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles or chopped nuts, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift the flour and cornstarch together, then gradually incorporate into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a log approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch thick. Place logs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Prepare the icing by whisking powdered sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle or dip the cooled logs in icing and garnish with sprinkles or nuts. Let the icing set before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 logs
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories per log: 110 kcal
Variations
- Flavor twist: Add a hint of lemon or almond extract to the dough or icing for a refreshing twist.
- Chocolate dip: Instead of vanilla icing, dip the logs in melted chocolate and top with nuts or coconut flakes.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze un-iced cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before icing.
- Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature and do not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cookies a day or two ahead and store them in an airtight container. Ice them just before serving.
2. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but omit any additional salt to avoid an overly salty flavor.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
4. Can I substitute cornstarch with something else?
You can use potato starch or rice flour for a similar texture, but cornstarch gives the best melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
5. Can I use almond flour for a gluten-free version?
Yes, but the texture will be denser and less tender. A gluten-free flour blend is a better substitute.
6. How do I prevent the icing from running off?
Ensure the cookies are completely cool before icing, and allow the icing to thicken slightly by letting it sit for a few minutes before applying.
7. What other toppings work well?
Chopped dried fruits, shredded coconut, or colored sugar can make fun and flavorful toppings.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches.
9. What if my dough is too sticky?
Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator to make it easier to handle.
10. How can I make the logs perfectly uniform?
Use a kitchen scale to weigh each portion of dough or shape the logs on parchment paper for consistency.
Conclusion
Melting Moment Logs are a delightful treat that combines buttery richness with the sweetness of vanilla icing. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or indulging in a quiet moment, these cookies are sure to impress. With their simplicity, versatility, and irresistible flavor, they’re bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Melting Moment Logs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 logs
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in buttery, tender Melting Moment Logs topped with sweet vanilla icing and festive garnishes. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for holidays, tea time, or gifting loved ones. Ready in just 35 minutes, they’re a delightful addition to any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles or chopped nuts (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and powdered sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract.
- Sift together flour and cornstarch. Gradually mix into the butter mixture to form a soft dough.
- Shape dough into 3-inch long logs, about ½ inch thick, and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract for the icing.
- Dip or drizzle icing over cooled cookies. Garnish with sprinkles or nuts. Let icing set before serving.
Notes
- Chill dough if sticky for easier handling.
- Customize the flavor by adding lemon or almond extract.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American