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Close-up of freshly baked moon cookies dusted with powdered sugar on a plate, showcasing their soft, chewy texture

 Moon Cookies Recipe: Buttery, Crumbly & Irresistible (Easy Guide!)

Chef Andrew
Discover the magic of Moon Cookies – these soft, chewy treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings! Made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and a hint of vanilla, these cookies are rolled in powdered sugar for an irresistible finish. Easy to make and even easier to eat, Moon Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family nights to festive celebrations. Try this recipe and bring a touch of sweetness to your day!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 12 People
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

 For the Cookies:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled for accuracy)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature for best texture)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1  large egg + 1 egg yolk (for richness)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (balances sweetness)
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder (for slight lift)

For the Classic Half-Moon Glaze:

  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted for smoothness)
  • 2-3 tbsp milk or cream (adjust for thickness)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (or lemon zest for brightness)
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder (for the chocolate half)

Instructions
 

Cream the Butter & Sugar:

  •  In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
  • Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla, mixing until fully combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
  • Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

Shape & Chill the Dough:

  • Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then flatten slightly into half-moon shapes.
  • Chill for 30 minutes (this prevents spreading while baking).

Bake to Perfection:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Let cool completely before glazing.

Glaze & Decorate:

  • Vanilla Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Chocolate Glaze: Add cocoa powder to half the vanilla glaze.
  • Dip each cookie half in vanilla, half in chocolate for the classic look.