If melt-in-your-mouth cookies are your thing (and let’s be real, how could they not be?), then you need these Cornstarch Cookies in your life. They’re incredibly soft, buttery, and have that delicate crumb that almost dissolves on your tongue. They’re light as air, subtly sweet, and totally addictive kind of like a shortbread’s more tender cousin.

The best part? They’re made with the simplest ingredients and come together in no time. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a holiday cookie tin, a tea-time treat, or just because your sweet tooth said so, these little gems are always a hit. Trust me these are the kind of cookies you bake once and never stop craving.

Why You’ll Love Cornstarch Cookies

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect with tea, coffee, or as a base for a cookie platter. You can dress them up with zest, extracts, or even dip them in chocolate.

Budget-Friendly: Just a handful of pantry ingredients nothing fancy, all delicious.

Quick and Easy: No chill time, no complicated steps. Just mix, shape, and bake.

Customizable: Add citrus zest, vanilla, almond extract, or a dusting of powdered sugar to make them your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Cornstarch Cookies

Here’s the magic of these cookies it’s the cornstarch that makes them so incredibly tender. Let’s break it down:

Butter: The backbone of these cookies. It adds richness, flavor, and helps create that soft, melt-away texture. Use unsalted and room temperature for best results.

Powdered Sugar: Dissolves easily into the dough and gives the cookies a fine, smooth sweetness without any grittiness.

All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure, but not too much you still want that delicate crumb.

Cornstarch: The star of the show. This is what gives these cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth feel.

Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and a cozy, subtle flavor that ties everything together.

Salt (optional): Just a pinch can help balance the sweetness and enhance the buttery flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix to combine. Gradually add in the flour and cornstarch, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Make sure your baking sheet is lined and ready to go. This makes baking and clean-up super simple.

Assemble the Dish: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them an inch or so apart. Use a fork to gently flatten each ball and create a pretty pattern.

Cook to Perfection: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. Don’t overbake you want them pale and soft!

Finishing Touches: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Optional: dust with powdered sugar for a sweet, snowy finish.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve with a warm beverage, tuck into a lunchbox, or stack them high on a dessert tray. However you enjoy them, they’re bound to disappear fast.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories per serving: 100

(put them as notes)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

How to Serve Cornstarch Cookies

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Pair them with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a relaxing moment. Serve them with berries or fruit preserves for a fancy little dessert board. Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let them set for an elegant twist.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use high-quality butter for the richest flavor.
• Don’t skip sifting the powdered sugar it helps prevent lumps in the dough.
• Add citrus zest (lemon or orange) for a fresh, bright twist.
• Want a holiday vibe? Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
• Chill the dough for 10–15 minutes if it’s too soft to roll.
• Let cookies cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze baked cookies or raw dough for later both freeze beautifully.
• For uniform cookies, use a small cookie scoop.
• Dust with powdered sugar after they cool for a clean, classic look.

FAQ’s

1. Why use cornstarch in cookies?
Cornstarch makes the cookies incredibly soft and gives them that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.

3. Do I have to chill the dough?
Not necessarily, but if your dough is too soft to shape, a quick chill helps.

4. Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
You can, though they’ll change the texture slightly. Keep additions small to maintain the delicate crumb.

5. How should I store these cookies?
In an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

6. Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a container or bag.

7. Why are my cookies crumbly?
Too much flour can dry them out. Be sure to measure carefully and don’t overmix.

8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is best for flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.

9. What do I do if my dough is too dry?
Add a teaspoon of milk or soft butter until it comes together smoothly.

10. Can I make them into shapes?
These cookies are soft, so basic round shapes or thumbprints work best. For cut-outs, chill the dough well and handle gently.

Conclusion

Cornstarch Cookies are the kind of classic, cozy treat that never go out of style. With their delicate texture, buttery richness, and just-right sweetness, they’re perfect for any moment that calls for a little comfort. Whether you’re baking a batch for guests, gifting them in a cute tin, or just enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, these cookies always deliver. Go ahead make a batch and taste what melt-in-your-mouth magic is all about!

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