Snowball cookies, known for their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and snowy powdered sugar coating, have been cherished across various cultures for centuries. Often referred to as Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Polvorones, these delightful treats have origins that are as diverse as their names suggest. Some historians trace their beginnings to medieval Arab baking traditions, which featured ingredients like butter, sugar, spices, and nuts. As trade routes expanded, these confections spread to Europe and eventually to the Americas, evolving into the beloved cookies we know today.
This particular recipe infuses the classic snowball cookie with bright citrus flavors, adding a refreshing twist that makes them perfect for any occasion, including Valentine’s Day.
Citrus Snowball Cookies Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- Zest of one lemon
- Zest of one orange
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- Additional powdered sugar for coating
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Citrus Zest: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter along with the lemon and orange zest until the mixture becomes light and fragrant.
- Add Sugars: Incorporate the granulated sugar and powdered sugar into the butter mixture, beating until it turns fluffy.
- Mix in the Egg: Add the egg to the mixture and beat until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Form the Cookies: Once chilled, scoop out small portions of dough (approximately 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden on the bottom.
- First Coating: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to create the initial “snowy” layer.
- Second Coating: Once the cookies have completely cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar to achieve a thick, snowy coating.
Conclusion:
These Citrus Snowball Cookies offer a delightful combination of buttery richness and zesty citrus flavor, making them a refreshing variation of the traditional snowball cookie. Their light, airy texture and sweet-tart taste make them an ideal treat for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared with loved ones, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
*Recipe adapted