As I was sifting through my collection of holiday recipes, I stumbled upon a bright and cheerful gem: Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies. These delightful treats bring a refreshing twist to traditional holiday fare, combining buttery shortbread with a zesty lemon filling that dances on your palate. What I love most about this recipe is its ability to impress guests while being incredibly easy to whip up: just a few simple ingredients and a little love transform into melt-in-your-mouth magic. Perfect for cookie exchanges or gifting, these cookies not only look stunning dusted with powdered sugar, but they also have a gluten-free option ready for anyone wanting to indulge without compromise. Are you ready to bring a burst of sunshine into your holiday baking?
Why Choose Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies?
Melt-in-your-mouth goodness: These cookies are not just any holiday treat; they offer a tender, buttery bite that leaves you craving more.
Bright citrus flavor: With fresh lemon zest and juice, each cookie bursts with refreshing tang that cuts through sweetness.
Simple preparation: Don’t worry about complicated baking techniques—this recipe is beginner-friendly and a cinch to whip up!
Gifts that impress: Dusted with powdered sugar, they make for stunning gifts, ensuring your friends and family will be wowed.
Gluten-free option: You can easily adapt them for gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor or texture, so everyone can enjoy a taste of joy!
Elevate your holiday gatherings with these cookies, and if you want more sweet inspiration, be sure to try Thick Chewy Cookies or Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies.
Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – 1 cup (2 sticks); use softened for easy blending and a rich flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – ½ cup + extra for rolling; ensure it’s fresh for the best snowy finish.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; substitutes well with almond extract for a lovely nutty twist.
- Fresh Lemon Zest – 2 teaspoons; fresh zest gives an authentic citrus burst that’s unbeatable.
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 baking flour blend.
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon; a sprinkle of salt enhances the sweetness in your cookies.
For the Cream Filling
- Cream Cheese – 4 oz (½ block); bring to room temperature for a creamy filling that blends smoothly.
- Additional Butter (for Filling) – 2 tablespoons, softened; it helps achieve the perfect consistency for your filling.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon; always use fresh for that zesty kick everyone will adore.
- Pinch of Salt – in filling; balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor profile of your cookies.
These Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies will add a delightful twist to your baking adventures, perfect for creating lasting memories with friends and family during the festive season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat 4 oz of softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add ½ cup of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined, then transfer the mixture to a small container and freeze for 45–60 minutes, until firm enough to scoop.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy—about 2 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, mixing until incorporated. Gradually sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the dough, flatten it slightly in your palm, and place ½ teaspoon of the frozen lemon filling in the center. Carefully encase the filling with dough, then roll the cookie into a ball. Place each cookie 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden and the tops are set but not browned. Be sure to watch them closely, as overbaking can alter their melt-in-your-mouth texture. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Dust with Powdered Sugar
While the cookies are still warm, roll each one in additional powdered sugar until evenly coated for that snowy, festive look. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before rolling them a second time in powdered sugar for an extra sweet finish. This final touch enhances the aesthetics and flavors of your delicious Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies.
Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies!
- Citrus Swap: Replace lemon with orange or lime zest for a unique twist on flavor. Each citrus brings its vibrant personality to the cookies!
- Filling Alternatives: Use raspberry jam, Nutella, or white chocolate ganache instead of the lemon filling for an indulgent surprise. Your guests will love the unexpected burst of flavor!
- Vegan Version: Choose plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese to make these cookies fully vegan-friendly while still being deliciously creamy.
- Chilled Curds: Switch the filling for chilled lemon curd for a tangy, refreshing center that accentuates the cookie’s sweetness beautifully. It’s an exciting change!
- Nutty Goodness: Add crushed nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the dough for a delightful crunch. This variation gives your cookies an exciting texture boost.
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Toss in some mini chocolate chips to the dough to add a rich, decadent layer to your cookies. They’ll be adored by chocolate lovers!
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon into the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor. A little spice can brighten the taste!
- Infused Sugar: Roll your cookies in lemon sugar (sugar mixed with lemon zest) instead of plain powdered sugar for an extra citrusy sweetness that will dazzle your taste buds.
Ready to take your baking to the next level? After whipping up these cookies, why not try other delightful treats like Potatoes Rosemary Cream or Chewy Pumpkin Cookies?
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Fridge: Keep cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container; this helps maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy your melt-in-the-mouth Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the creamy lemon filling and freeze it for up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply follow the filling instructions, scoop into a container, and freeze until firm. Additionally, you can also make the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the dough, encase the frozen filling, and roll into balls before baking as directed. This way, you’ll have fresh, melt-in-your-mouth cookies ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies
These delightful treats are perfect for elevating any gathering, bringing festive cheer to your table.
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Aromatic Tea: The warmth of chamomile or Earl Grey brings out the refreshing lemon brightness, creating a cozy pairing that warms the soul.
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Rich Hot Cocoa: This indulgent drink’s creamy texture balances the bright citrus, turning your snack time into a comforting celebration of flavors.
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Soft Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake complements the cookies’ buttery goodness, adding a delightful crumb that enhances the overall experience.
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Fruity Sorbet: Serve a scoop of lemon or raspberry sorbet alongside for a refreshing palate cleanser, echoing the cookies’ zesty notes.
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Lemonade Spritzer: A bubbly lemon soda adds a fizzy kick, amplifying the cookies’ citrus flavor while keeping the atmosphere light and festive.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness of strawberries pairs beautifully with the tart lemon cookies, creating a symphony of flavors that perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Shortbread Crumble: The crunch of a buttery shortbread crumble echoing the cookies’ texture makes for a textural delight that keeps guests coming back for more.
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Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add a rich and creamy element, contrasting beautifully with the cookies’ lightness, ensuring every bite thrills the palate.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side provides a creamy finish to the zesty cookies, creating a dreamy dessert experience perfect for any occasion.
Expert Tips for Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies
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Use Softened Ingredients: Ensure both your butter and cream cheese are fully softened. This creates a smoothly blended filling and a tender cookie dough.
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Freeze Filling for Precision: Freeze your lemon filling for 45–60 minutes before shaping. This helps prevent any leaks during baking and makes assembly easier.
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Mind the Filling Amount: Avoid overfilling each cookie. Using about ½ teaspoon of filling ensures your cookies stay intact while baking, delivering the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Cooling Time Matters: Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar. This allows the sugar to stick better for that delightful snowy effect.
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Storage Essentials: Store the baked Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them—simply thaw before serving!
Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ripeness of lemons for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting lemons, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, as this indicates juiciness. Avoid lemons with dark spots or blemishes. Fresh lemons will give you the brightest flavor and zest, making your cookies even more delightful.
How should I store Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies after baking?
To maintain their melt-in-your-mouth texture, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week—just make sure they’re sealed tightly!
Can I freeze Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps retain their soft texture!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If you find that your cookies spread too much, it may be due to the dough being too soft. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before you shape the cookies to help them retain their form while baking. Additionally, ensure you’re using softened butter, not melted, for the right texture.
Are these cookies safe for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! To make a gluten-free version of Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. This keeps the texture light and fluffy while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free!
Can my pets share in the joy of Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from your pets. Ingredients like butter and sugar can be harmful to them in large amounts. While your furry friends may give you those adorable puppy eyes, save the cookies for your family and keep some dog-friendly treats on hand for them!
Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and additional butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined, then freeze for 45–60 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing until incorporated. Gradually sift in flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough, flatten it, and place ½ teaspoon of frozen filling in the center. Encapsulate the filling with dough and roll into a ball.
- Bake cookies for 12–14 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden. Allow to cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes.
- While warm, roll cookies in additional powdered sugar until coated, then allow to cool completely before rolling in sugar again.
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