Introduction
Get ready to make your taste buds dance with joy! These Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies are the perfect blend of zesty lemon and rich buttery goodness. Ideal for any occasion, these bite-sized treats are sure to bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite. With a delicate texture that melts in your mouth and a dusting of powdered sugar that makes them look as delightful as they taste, they are perfect for holiday gatherings, family get-togethers, or simply indulging yourself. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup softened unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for those delightful cookies.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your cookies.
- Add the vibrant lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and fragrant vanilla extract to the buttery mixture, stirring until everything is beautifully combined.
- Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing gently until a soft, cohesive dough begins to form.
- Shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for a little spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned – we want that lovely pale golden hue!
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cookies are still warm and slightly soft, roll them in the additional 1 cup of powdered sugar for that classic snowball effect.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving and enjoy the burst of lemony flavor with every melt-in-your-mouth bite!
Notes or Tips
For an extra zing, feel free to add a pinch of salt to the powdered sugar for rolling. This enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully. You can also experiment with different citrus zests like orange or lime for a fun twist!
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugar properly is key to achieving that light and airy texture in these cookies. Be patient while mixing, as it can make all the difference in your final product. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature; this will help it blend more effectively with the sugar.
FAQ
Can I refrigerate the dough?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This can also help the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store any cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to a week—if they last that long!
Conclusion
Whether you’re sharing these Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies with friends and family or enjoying them as a treat just for you, they’re guaranteed to brighten your day with their delightful flavor and sweet aroma. Happy baking and enjoy every delightful bite!