Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies
Buttery, citrus‑kissed, and dusted in snowy powdered sugar — a festive cookie that melts in your mouth.
Introduction
Snowball cookies are one of those timeless holiday treats that instantly evoke nostalgia. Known by many names — Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, Butterballs — they all share the same hallmark: a tender, buttery crumb rolled in powdered sugar until they resemble little snowballs.
This recipe for Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies adds a refreshing twist to the classic. The brightness of lemon zest and juice cuts through the richness of butter, creating a cookie that’s both indulgent and light. Double‑rolled in powdered sugar, they sparkle like winter snow, making them perfect for Christmas cookie platters, afternoon tea, or any occasion where you want a treat that feels festive and elegant.
Ingredients Breakdown
1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The foundation of richness. Butter provides flavor and tender texture.
¾ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and contributes to melt‑in‑your‑mouth crumb. Powdered sugar dissolves quickly, unlike granulated sugar.
1 tablespoon lemon zest – Intensifies citrus aroma with essential oils.
2 tablespoons lemon juice – Adds brightness and tang.
2 cups all‑purpose flour – Provides structure.
¼ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Warm undertone that complements lemon.
¾ cup powdered sugar (for rolling) – Creates snowy coating.
Step‑by‑Step Directions
Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Flavorings: Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour and salt in a separate bowl.
Mix Dough: Gradually add dry mixture to wet, stirring until soft dough forms.
Shape Cookies: Roll dough into 1‑inch balls. Place on baking sheet 2 inches apart.
Bake: Bake 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Cool Slightly: Let cookies rest on sheet for 5 minutes.
First Sugar Roll: While warm, roll cookies in powdered sugar.
Cool Completely: Transfer to wire rack.
Second Sugar Roll: Roll again in powdered sugar for snowy effect.
Baking Science
Butter and sugar creaming incorporates air, creating tender texture.
Powdered sugar contains cornstarch, which helps prevent spreading.
Lemon juice acidity tenderizes gluten, keeping cookies soft.
Double sugar coating ensures snowy appearance and balanced sweetness.
Tips for Success
Use fresh lemon zest for brightest flavor.
Chill dough for 30 minutes before baking for firmer cookies.
Don’t overbake — edges should just turn golden.
Roll while warm so sugar sticks, then again when cool for full coverage.
Variations
Nutty Snowballs: Add finely chopped pecans or almonds to dough.
Lavender Lemon Cookies: Add ½ tsp dried lavender for floral notes.
Holiday Version: Tint powdered sugar with edible glitter for sparkle.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle cooled cookies with white chocolate.
Serving Ideas
Serve on festive platters for holidays.
Pair with tea, coffee, or hot cocoa.
Package in tins for edible gifts.
Use as centerpiece dessert at gatherings.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps fresh up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze uncoated cookies for up to 2 months. Roll in sugar after thawing.
Nutrition (per cookie, approx.)
Calories: ~180
Protein: ~2g
Fat: ~10g
Carbs: ~20g
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History of Snowball Cookies
Snowball cookies have traveled across cultures, appearing as Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, and European butterballs. Their buttery base and powdered sugar coating make them universally loved. Adding lemon is a modern twist that brings brightness to the traditional recipe.
Why Lemon Works So Well
Lemon adds acidity, which balances sweetness and enhances other flavors. The zest contains essential oils that provide intense aroma, while juice adds brightness.
Pairing Suggestions
Tea Pairing: Earl Grey or chamomile complement lemon.
Coffee Pairing: A medium roast balances citrus notes.
Wine Pairing: A sparkling rosé enhances fruity flavors.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
Can I skip the second sugar roll? Yes, but double coating gives snowy look.
Can I make dough ahead? Yes, refrigerate up to 48 hours before baking.
Conclusion
These Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic. With their buttery base, citrus zing, and snowy coating, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday baking, they’re a recipe worth keeping in your collection.