Making a batch of 1989-style melt-away cookies is like stepping back in time. These soft, buttery delights are perfect for any holiday spread or as a nostalgic treat. Follow this detailed recipe to recreate the taste and texture of these beloved classic cookies.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (90g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added flavor
#### Equipment:
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### 1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and turn out perfect every time.
#### 2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
#### 3. Add Vanilla and Eggs
Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Next, add in the vanilla extract followed by the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture will become slightly lumpy but keep mixing until smooth.
#### 4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter-sugar-egg mixture in the main bowl, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the ingredients are incorporated.
#### 5. Optional Add-Ins
If you’re adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts, gently fold them into the dough at this point. This will ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cookies.
#### 6. Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets lined with parchment paper (for easier cleanup). Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading as they bake.
#### 7. Bake Until Golden Brown
Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown but the centers remain soft. Overbaking can cause them to become too hard.
#### 8. Cool and Enjoy!
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to fully cool. The warmth from the cookie will make them melt in your mouth, giving you that classic melt-away experience!
### Tips for Perfect Results:
- Use softened butter but not melted.
- Don’t overmix the dough; this is key to maintaining their delicate texture.
- Be sure to preheat your oven before baking.
Enjoy your homemade 1989-style meltaways! These cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends, or simply as a sweet treat on your own. Happy baking!