Bright, zesty, and melt-in-your-mouth soft, Lemon Snowball Cookies are the perfect treat to bring a little sunshine to your dessert table. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor and coated in a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are like tiny snowballs of joy with a tangy twist.
They’re buttery, tender, and so irresistibly good that one bite will transport you straight to cookie heaven. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a spring gathering, or simply want a refreshing treat with your afternoon tea, these cookies never disappoint.
Psst… don’t forget to *“Pin now, bake later” — save this pin for recipe inspiration anytime you crave something lemony and sweet!
What makes these cookies truly special is their simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples and a pop of fresh lemon zest, you’ll have a batch ready in under an hour.
No complicated steps, no chilling overnight — just quick, delightful baking that fills your kitchen with a citrusy aroma. They also store beautifully, making them a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. Light, refreshing, and oh-so-pretty, Lemon Snowball Cookies are a bite-sized reminder that the best desserts are often the simplest.
Lemon Snowball Cookies Recipe
Description
Lemon Snowball Cookies are soft, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats infused with bright citrus flavor.
Made with simple ingredients like butter, flour, powdered sugar, and fresh lemon zest, these cookies have a delicate, crumbly texture that pairs perfectly with their tangy sweetness.
Once baked to a light golden hue, they’re rolled generously in powdered sugar, giving them their signature “snowball” look.
Perfect for holidays, tea parties, or any occasion where you crave a refreshing twist on a classic cookie, these lemon delights are both elegant and comforting. Their zesty aroma and snowy coating make them irresistible bites of sunshine year-round.
Ingredients
For coating:
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and ½ cup powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. This step is essential for giving the cookies their melt-in-your-mouth texture. A hand mixer or stand mixer works best here, but a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease will also do the trick.
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Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and fresh lemon zest. The zest is key—it’s where all the natural lemon oils live, giving the cookies a bright, citrusy aroma. Don’t skip it, as it balances the richness of the butter with a fresh zing.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture into the butter mixture. If using nuts, gently fold them in at this stage. The dough will be thick but soft.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30–45 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls and preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale—this keeps them soft and tender inside.
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Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While still slightly warm, roll them gently in powdered sugar, coating completely. Place on a wire rack to cool completely, then roll once more in powdered sugar for that iconic snowy finish.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 24
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 110kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6g10%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Cholesterol 15mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 13g5%
- Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 1g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Lemon Snowball Cookies Recipe Tips and Serving Tricks
Lemon Snowball Cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional snowball cookie, infusing a refreshing citrusy flavor into the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat. These cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, are typically rolled in powdered sugar to resemble little snowballs.
With the addition of lemon zest and juice, they become tangy, bright, and perfect for spring, summer, or festive gatherings. To make your Lemon Snowball Cookies truly stand out, here are some recipe tips and creative serving tricks.
Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Lemons
Always use freshly grated lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice lacks the same vibrant, fragrant citrus oils that make these cookies so irresistible. The zest provides intense flavor without adding liquid, while the juice enhances the dough’s freshness. - Balance the Sweetness
Lemon naturally has tart notes, so make sure your dough has enough sugar to balance the tang. Many bakers also add a pinch of salt, which sharpens the flavors and prevents the cookies from tasting overly sweet. - Chill the Dough
After mixing, let the dough chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the butter, making the dough easier to roll into uniform balls and preventing excessive spreading in the oven. - Size Matters
Snowball cookies should be bite-sized—about one inch in diameter. Too large, and they won’t bake evenly. Too small, and they may dry out. Use a small cookie scoop for consistency and professional presentation. - Double Rolling in Sugar
The secret to that snowy coating is rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar. Roll once while the cookies are still slightly warm so the sugar adheres, then roll again once cooled to create a soft, snowy appearance. For added lemony zing, you can mix a little lemon zest into the powdered sugar. - Avoid Overbaking
These cookies should be pale, not golden brown. Bake just until set—usually 10–12 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Overbaking can make them dry and crumbly. - Add a Twist of Texture
Traditionally, snowball cookies contain finely chopped nuts like pecans, almonds, or walnuts. For a refreshing lemon version, consider using finely ground almonds or skipping nuts entirely for a smoother, buttery bite.
Serving Tricks
- Festive Presentation
Arrange your lemon snowball cookies on a white or pastel platter to highlight their snowy coating. Dust the serving tray with extra powdered sugar for a whimsical, snowy effect. Adding thin lemon slices or candied lemon peel as garnish enhances the citrus theme. - Pair with Beverages
These cookies pair wonderfully with drinks. Serve them alongside hot tea (green tea, chamomile, or Earl Grey), a glass of sparkling lemonade, or even prosecco for a sophisticated touch at parties. The tangy sweetness complements both warm and chilled beverages. - Gift-Worthy Packaging
Lemon Snowball Cookies make excellent edible gifts. Place them in decorative tins, mason jars, or small paper boxes lined with parchment. Tie with a yellow ribbon or add a lemon-shaped gift tag for a personal touch. Because these cookies stay fresh for about a week in an airtight container, they’re ideal for gifting. - Seasonal Variations
For spring or Easter gatherings, serve them in pastel cupcake liners for a pop of color. In winter, arrange them on a holiday platter dusted with edible glitter or gold sugar for a festive sparkle. - Mini Dessert Boards
Incorporate Lemon Snowball Cookies into a dessert charcuterie board. Pair them with lemon bars, white chocolate truffles, or fruit-topped tarts. Their small size and snowy appearance balance the visual and flavor variety of the board. - Single-Serve Favors
For weddings, baby showers, or tea parties, place two or three cookies in small cellophane bags tied with a lemon-yellow ribbon. Guests will appreciate the thoughtful, homemade favor that doubles as a sweet snack. - Chilled Summer Treat
During warm months, serve Lemon Snowball Cookies slightly chilled. Storing them in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before serving gives them a cool, refreshing bite that pairs beautifully with iced beverages.
Baking Tips
- Fresh lemon is key – Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant flavor of fresh juice and zest. Always zest the lemon before juicing for ease.
- Don’t overbake – The cookies should remain pale on top. Overbaking makes them dry instead of tender.
- Double sugar coating – The first sugar roll sticks better when the cookies are warm, while the second adds that beautiful snowy look.
- Optional nuts – If you like a traditional snowball crunch, finely chopped almonds or pecans are excellent. For a smoother texture, leave them out.
Storage and Make-Ahead
- Room temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. They keep well and even taste better the next day as the lemon flavor develops.
- Freezer: These cookies freeze beautifully. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Dust with extra powdered sugar after thawing, if needed.
- Make-ahead dough: The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. Just let it soften slightly before rolling into balls.
Variations
- Lemon-Lavender Snowballs – Add ½ teaspoon of dried culinary lavender to the dough for a floral twist.
- Glazed Snowballs – Instead of powdered sugar, drizzle cooled cookies with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Nut-Free Option – Skip the nuts for a smoother, shortbread-like texture.
- Coconut Snowballs – Roll the cookies in a mix of powdered sugar and finely shredded coconut for a tropical feel.
- Meyer Lemon Snowballs – Use Meyer lemons if available; their natural sweetness adds a softer, more floral citrus note.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Snowball Cookies
- Bright & Refreshing: The citrus cuts through the richness of butter.
- Festive Look: Coated in powdered sugar, they resemble little snowballs, perfect for holidays or elegant gatherings.
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, these are beginner-friendly cookies.
- Versatile: Serve with tea, coffee, or even as part of a holiday cookie tray.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cup of Earl Grey tea for a refreshing afternoon treat.
- Serve alongside fruit platters at spring or summer gatherings.
- Add to a holiday cookie assortment for a zesty surprise.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Snowball Cookies are a delightful variation of the traditional holiday snowball cookie, offering the same tender, buttery texture with the bonus of a bright citrus kick.
With their simple ingredients, quick preparation, and versatile flavor, they’re the kind of cookies you’ll want to bake all year round. Whether dusted in snowy sugar for Christmas or served with fresh lemonade in summer, these cookies promise sunshine in every bite.
Lemon Snowball Cookies are more than just a treat—they are versatile, festive, and elegant. With the right preparation tips and serving tricks, you can elevate a simple cookie into a memorable dessert centerpiece.
Whether you’re baking them for the holidays, gifting them to friends, or adding a citrusy touch to a summer tea party, these cookies always delight. Their buttery texture, combined with the fresh zest of lemon and snowy sugar coating, makes them a timeless cookie worth savoring and sharing.
So, grab your lemons, preheat that oven, and let these cookies bring a refreshing burst of joy to your kitchen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are Lemon Snowball Cookies and how are they different from classic snowball cookies?
Lemon Snowball Cookies are a bright, citrusy twist on the traditional buttery snowball or Russian tea cake cookies. While the classic version is flavored with vanilla or nuts, this recipe adds fresh lemon zest and juice, giving them a tangy flavor that balances perfectly with the sweet powdered sugar coating. They still maintain their melt-in-your-mouth, crumbly texture but with a refreshing zing.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time or freeze them?
Yes! Lemon Snowball Cookies are perfect for making in advance. You can prepare the dough, shape it into balls, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply place them on a tray and bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen after cooling and rolled in sugar. For best results, re-roll them in powdered sugar after thawing.
How do I keep the cookies soft and prevent them from drying out?
To maintain their soft, delicate texture, avoid overbaking. Bake just until the bottoms are lightly golden, as overbaking makes them crumbly and dry. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Adding a small piece of bread or a slice of apple in the container helps retain moisture without altering the flavor.
Can I customize the recipe with other flavors?
Absolutely! While lemon gives a refreshing taste, you can swap it with orange or lime zest for variation. For a nutty twist, add finely ground almonds, pecans, or pistachios to the dough. A drizzle of white chocolate over the cooled cookies also enhances both presentation and flavor.
