Bright Buttery Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies

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Delicate, buttery, and packed with vibrant lemon flavor, these snowball cookies are little bites of sunshine that melt in your mouth. Each one is rolled in powdered sugar, making them look as dreamy as they taste. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just need something sweet to brighten your day, these cookies are always a hit.

What makes these lemon snowball cookies stand out is their soft, crumbly texture paired with the zing of fresh lemon zest and a creamy twist that surprises every time. They’re made with simple ingredients but deliver big flavor, and the best part? No chilling required. You’ll go from mixing bowl to cookie plate in less than 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Bright Buttery Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s elegant yet easy, this one checks all the boxes. The lemon adds a refreshing twist to the traditional snowball cookie, making them perfect for spring and summer gatherings. They’re also freezer-friendly, which means you can make a batch ahead of time and always have something ready for guests. Each bite brings a melt-in-your-mouth buttery richness, quickly followed by a burst of citrus that keeps you coming back for more.

What Kind of Lemons Should I Use?

Fresh is best here. Use real lemons for both the juice and zest to get the full citrusy punch. Meyer lemons add a sweeter touch, while regular lemons bring the classic tangy brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will work in a small amount, but you’ll lose some of that fresh zest that really makes these cookies shine.

Ingredients for the Bright Buttery Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies

This cookie dough is so easy to bring together, and the ingredients are pantry staples for most home bakers. It’s all about balance here: rich butter, sweet powdered sugar, and zippy lemon.

• Unsalted butter
• Powdered sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Heavy cream

Each of these ingredients plays a key role. Unsalted butter is the base that gives these cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Powdered sugar sweetens the dough without adding graininess. Cornstarch adds a soft, tender bite. The duo of lemon zest and lemon juice brings that unmistakable citrus pop, while a splash of vanilla extract balances the tang. A pinch of salt enhances flavor, and a bit of heavy cream gives the dough a creamy richness that makes every bite divine.

How To Make the Bright Buttery Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is key to the soft texture.

Step 2: Add the Flavor

Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat until everything is smooth and fragrant.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until the bottoms are just golden. Don’t overbake — you want them soft.

Step 5: Cool and Sugar-Coat

Let the cookies cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Once cooled completely, roll them again for that classic snowball look.

Storing and Serving These Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies

These cookies are perfect for gifting, sharing, or storing for your own sweet cravings. They keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them, either before or after baking, for longer storage. Just be sure to roll in powdered sugar after thawing if freezing baked cookies. This recipe yields about 24 cookies, making it ideal for small gatherings or cookie exchanges.

What to Serve With Bright Buttery Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies?

Lemonade or Iced Tea

The fresh citrus flavors in the cookies pair perfectly with a cool glass of lemonade or subtly sweet iced tea.

Fresh Berries

Serve these cookies alongside strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a vibrant and colorful treat.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

For an indulgent dessert, pair your snowballs with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream.

White Chocolate Dip

A drizzle or dip of white chocolate adds another layer of decadence that compliments the lemon beautifully.

Hot Earl Grey Tea

The bergamot in Earl Grey tea plays nicely with the lemon notes in the cookies.

Sparkling Water with Citrus

A fizzy citrus drink elevates the refreshment factor and keeps things light.

Lemon Curd

If you’re a lemon lover, serve the cookies with a small side of lemon curd for dunking.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Bright Buttery Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other fresh and flavorful favorites:

• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons for a chewy tropical bite.
• Ooey Gooey Bars if you’re all about indulgence.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes when you want cozy spice and cream cheese in every bite.
• Strawberry Flaky Puff Dreams to explore a fruity, flaky twist.
• Delicious Lemon Cake to Die For if you’re craving more bold lemon goodness.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you double the lemon? Try adding a glaze? Or maybe sneak in a little almond extract?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.

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