Oh my goodness, have you ever tasted a cookie that’s like a burst of sunshine? That’s exactly what these Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies are! They’re soft, buttery, and just packed with that zesty lemon flavor that brightens up any day. I remember the first time I made them; I had just come back from a picnic, and the fresh lemons from our backyard were calling my name. I whipped these up in no time, and the whole house smelled like a sunny day! It’s a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just need a little treat to brighten your afternoon. Trust me, once you try these cookies, you’ll be hooked! They’re simply irresistible!
Ingredients for Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (this gives the cookies that melt-in-your-mouth texture)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (the base of our cookie dough)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (this adds a light, delicate crumb)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (just a pinch to enhance the flavors)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated for the best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (a touch of warmth to balance the tartness)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed, please, for maximum zestiness)
- Additional powdered sugar for coating (you’ll want plenty for that snowy finish!)
How to Prepare Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your cookies bake evenly. No one likes a cookie that’s undercooked in the middle, right? So, let that oven get nice and toasty while you mix up your dough!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, grab that softened unsalted butter and the powdered sugar. I usually use an electric mixer for this step—it makes things so much easier! Beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. You’re looking for a texture that’s smooth and creamy, almost like frosting. Trust me, this is what gives your cookies that melt-in-your-mouth quality!
Step 3: Incorporate Flavor
Now it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Toss in your lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Make sure to mix everything until it’s well combined. The smell will be heavenly at this point, and you’ll want to keep mixing until all those flavors are perfectly blended together. Don’t rush this step; it really makes a difference!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. It’s super important to do this separately to ensure there are no clumps in your dough. You want everything to be evenly mixed, so take a minute to really incorporate those dry ingredients!
Step 5: Form the Dough
Next, gradually add the dry mixture to your buttery goodness. Mix until a soft dough forms, but don’t overmix! Once it’s all combined, it’s time to get your hands a little messy. Scoop out small amounts of dough and roll them into balls about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
Step 6: Bake and Coat
Pop those cookie balls into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfect to overdone in a flash! Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly—just a couple of minutes. While they’re still warm, roll them in powdered sugar for that lovely snowy finish. It’s the best part, and the cookies will look so inviting!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few handy tips for you! First off, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it into balls. This makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies keep their shape while baking—no one wants flat cookies, right?
Also, always use fresh lemon juice and zest if you can. It really amps up the flavor and gives your cookies that vibrant zing. Trust me, you’ll notice the difference! And don’t skimp on the powdered sugar for coating—it’s not just for looks; it adds that delightful sweetness that balances the tangy lemon.
Finally, keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens can vary, and you want those edges just lightly golden, with a soft center. If you find yourself with leftovers (which I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious for days to come. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information for Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies
Each of these delightful Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies packs a punch of flavor without being too heavy. Here’s the estimated nutritional data per cookie:
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. But regardless, you’ll be indulging in a sweet treat that’s bursting with lemon goodness!
FAQ Section
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
While you can use salted butter, I recommend sticking with unsalted for this recipe. It allows you to control the saltiness and really brings out that bright lemon flavor without any interference.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store your Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay deliciously soft and sweet! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a big if!), just make sure they’re sealed up tight.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free as well. Your cookies will still be delightful!
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
No worries! You can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh lemons really elevate the flavor. If you go this route, just make sure to choose a good-quality brand. And don’t forget to skip the zest since you won’t have any!
Can I freeze these cookies?
You bet! These cookies freeze wonderfully. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll be good for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature and roll them in powdered sugar again if desired!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time: You can whip these cookies up in just about 20 minutes!
- Easy to make: The steps are straightforward, perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Flavorful: Bursting with bright lemon flavor that’s refreshing and zesty.
- Perfect for gatherings: These cookies are a hit at parties, picnics, and get-togethers.
- Soft and buttery: The texture is melt-in-your-mouth good, making them irresistible.
- Beautiful presentation: The powdered sugar coating makes them look as good as they taste!
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the lemon flavor or try different coatings!
- Great for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday or just a regular day, these cookies fit right in!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly soft and flavorful for up to a week. Just make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent them from drying out—nobody wants a stale cookie!
If you happen to have some leftovers (which is a real feat!), you can also freeze these cookies. Just layer them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They’ll freeze beautifully for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you want that snowy powdered sugar finish to pop again, feel free to give them a quick roll in more powdered sugar once they’re thawed. It’s like a little magic touch to make them feel fresh and inviting all over again!
Print
Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies That Brighten Your Day!
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery, and bursting with lemon flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Additional powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Form the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Roll in powdered sugar while still warm.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- For extra lemon flavor, add more lemon zest.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for easier handling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies