If there’s one cookie that instantly makes a dessert table feel festive, it’s a snowball cookie—those soft, buttery little bites rolled in powdered sugar until they look like fresh snow. But this citrus version? It’s next-level. Citrus Snowball Cookies take everything you love about classic snowballs (tender, crumbly, rich, and sweet) and add a sunny twist: fresh citrus zest that perfumes the dough and makes each bite taste lighter, brighter, and totally addictive.
These cookies are a holiday hero for a few reasons. First, they’re unbelievably easy—no fancy decorating, no icing skills, no complicated steps. Second, they’re dependable: the dough comes together quickly, bakes evenly, and the cookies hold their shape nicely. Third, they’re always loved. People recognize the snowball look immediately, but the citrus flavor surprises them in the best way. It’s like a buttery shortbread cookie met a lemon-orange candy and decided to become the prettiest cookie on the plate.
Citrus snowballs are especially perfect when you want a treat that balances out the heavier holiday desserts. Between chocolate, caramel, spice, and peppermint, a bright citrus cookie feels refreshing. They’re also wonderful for cookie boxes because they store well and look beautiful tucked into little paper cups. And best of all: they taste even better the next day, after the citrus oils have had time to settle into the dough.
Below you’ll find a complete, detailed recipe, plus tips for perfect texture, citrus options (lemon, orange, lime, or a mix), make-ahead and storage instructions, and easy variations so you can customize them for your holiday table.
What Are Snowball Cookies?
Snowball cookies are classic holiday cookies known by many names—Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, Butterballs—depending on the recipe style and region. The texture is their signature: buttery and tender, with a delicate crumble that almost melts as you chew. Traditionally they’re made with butter, powdered sugar, flour, and often nuts. This citrus version keeps that same melt-in-your-mouth feel, but replaces the “plain” flavor with bright zest and a tiny bit of citrus juice for extra sparkle.
Ingredients (Makes About 24–30 Cookies)
For the Cookies
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1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened (very important for texture)
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1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 tablespoons fresh citrus zest (choose one or use a mix)
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Lemon zest for bright and classic
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Orange zest for sweet and fragrant
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Lime zest for bold and zippy
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1 tablespoon fresh citrus juice (optional but recommended for aroma)
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2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (optional)
Pecans or walnuts are traditional and add richness, but you can skip them for a nut-free version.
For Rolling
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1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (you’ll roll twice for the best “snow” look)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1) Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper (or a silicone baking mat). This prevents sticking and helps the bottoms cook evenly without browning too fast.
Why it matters: Snowball cookies should stay pale and tender. Parchment protects the delicate bottoms.
2) Cream the Butter and Powdered Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together for 2–3 minutes, until light and fluffy. This step is key for a tender texture.
Tip: If your butter is too cold, the dough won’t cream properly. If it’s melted, the cookies may spread. Softened butter should indent when pressed but still hold shape.
