Description
Lemon Cream Snowball Cookies combine a tender, buttery cookie shell bursting with bright lemon zest and a luscious creamy lemon filling. These delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treats are perfect for tea time, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a zesty, sweet indulgence. Coated in powdered sugar, they offer a beautiful snowball appearance and a refreshing citrus twist.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp lemon zest
Cream Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- 1 pinch salt
Coating
- Extra powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sweeteners and Lemon: Gradually blend in 1½ cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, ½ teaspoon lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and the filling is smooth.
- Chill the Filling: Cover and refrigerate the cream filling for about 30 minutes to firm up while preparing the dough.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream 1 cup of softened butter with ½ cup powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 teaspoons lemon zest until evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Slowly add 2 cups all-purpose flour and ¼ teaspoon salt to the creamed mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.
- Form the Cookies: Take about a tablespoon of dough in your hand and flatten it slightly. Place ½ teaspoon of the chilled cream filling in the center, then carefully fold and pull the dough around the filling, rolling it into a smooth ball to encase the filling completely.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the cookie balls on a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes or until the cookie edges turn a light golden color.
- Initial Cooling and Coating: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar to coat while they are still warm.
- Final Coating: Once the cookies are fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again to achieve a perfect snowy, sweet finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth filling.
- Use fresh lemon zest for the brightest flavor.
- Handle the dough gently when wrapping the filling to prevent cracking.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before the final powdered sugar coating to avoid melting.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.