Snowball cookies (also called Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies) are the ultimate holiday classic: tender, buttery, and rolled in powdered sugar like fresh snow. The best part? They’re super easy, freezer-friendly, and perfect for cookie boxes, dessert tables, and last-minute gifting. Below are four full, reliable versions inspired by your image: Cinnamon Cream Cheese, Citrus, Eggnog Spiced, and Anise—all soft, melt-in-your-mouth, and dusted generously in powdered sugar.
Yield for each recipe: about 22–28 cookies (depending on size)
Bake: 10–12 minutes at 350°F / 175°C
1) Cinnamon Cream Cheese Snowball Cookies
Extra tender with a subtle tang and cozy cinnamon warmth.
Ingredients
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2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/4 tsp salt
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
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4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup (120 g+) powdered sugar, for rolling
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
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Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon together.
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Beat butter + cream cheese until smooth (1–2 min). Add sugar and beat again until fluffy.
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Mix in egg and vanilla.
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Add dry ingredients and mix just until a soft dough forms.
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Scoop 1 tbsp portions and roll into balls. Place 2 inches apart.
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Bake 10–12 minutes (bottoms lightly golden, tops pale).
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Cool 5 minutes, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.
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Roll again once fully cool for a thick “snowy” coat.
2) Citrus Snowball Cookies (Orange + Lemon Zest)
Bright, buttery, and perfect when you want something not-too-heavy.
Ingredients
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2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tbsp lemon zest
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1 tbsp orange zest
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1 cup (120 g+) powdered sugar, for rolling
