Festive Powdered Sugar Coated Melting Moments
These delightful Powdered Sugar Coated Melting Moments are soft, buttery cookies that literally melt in your mouth. Originating from Australia, these cookies are a beloved treat during festive seasons and special occasions like Christmas, family gatherings, and tea parties. The combination of rich, buttery flavor and a delicate, crumbly texture makes them a unique addition to any dessert table. Dusted with powdered sugar, they offer a sweet finish that is both comforting and elegant.
Prep and Cook Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Skill Level: Beginner
Serving Information
This recipe yields about 24 cookies. For a beautiful presentation, serve them on a decorative platter with a sprinkle of extra powdered sugar and perhaps some holiday-themed decorations. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients List
- 1 cup (225 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (60 grams) powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose Flour
- 1/2 cup (60 grams) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free option. Ensure to check if your powdered sugar is vegan, as some brands may contain bone char.
No ingredients require advance preparation.
Equipment List
- Mixing bowl (medium size)
- Electric mixer (stand or handheld)
- Baking sheet (two standard size)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Wire cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter (optional, for powdered sugar)
If you don’t have a stand mixer, a handheld electric mixer will work fine. Parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for a light texture.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and cornstarch, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form small balls of dough (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still pale. They should look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack.
- Once completely cooled, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar.
Technique Tips and Troubleshooting
When creaming butter and sugar, ensure the butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing. If the dough seems too crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk to help it come together. If your cookies spread too much during baking, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Plating and Presentation
To serve, arrange the cookies on a festive platter. For an extra touch, you can place them in decorative paper liners or sprinkle with some edible glitter for a holiday sparkle. A fresh sprig of mint or a few berries can also add a pop of color.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to maintain their freshness, consider adding a slice of bread to the container; this will help keep them soft. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to customize your melting moments by adding lemon or orange zest for a citrus twist, or incorporate chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture. For a chocolate version, replace 1/4 cup of flour with cocoa powder.
Notes on Ingredients and Equipment
Using high-quality unsalted butter is key to achieving that rich flavor. If you need to buy powdered sugar, check for brands without additives if you’re aiming for a pure product. A silicone baking mat can be a great investment for easy release and cleanup.
Final Touches and Personal Notes
This recipe holds special meaning for me as it was a favorite during my childhood, often made with my grandmother during the festive season. I encourage you to experiment with flavors and techniques—these cookies are forgiving and can be adjusted to suit your taste. Happy baking, and I’d love to hear how your melting moments turn out!
