Description

Bright, zesty, and melt-in-your-mouth, these lemon snowball cookies are a refreshing twist on a classic treat. Perfect for cozy afternoons, tea parties, or sharing with friends, they combine tender, buttery dough with the sunny flavor of lemon, all coated in a delicate layer of powdered sugar. Inspired by traditional snowball cookies, this version adds a citrusy sparkle that makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and lemon zest.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden and the centers remain soft.
Allow cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, roll in powdered sugar a second time for a snowy finish.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
For extra citrus flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to the dough.
Roll cookies in powdered sugar twice—once warm and once cooled—for a classic snowball appearance.
Avoid overbaking to ensure a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes