Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies

Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies

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These Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies are a delightful blend of tangy lemon and sweet coconut, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The soft, buttery texture of the cookie is perfectly complemented by the light coating of powdered sugar that adds a festive touch.

These cookies are ideal for holiday celebrations, cookie exchanges, or a cozy afternoon treat. Their bright lemon flavor and coconut richness will surely impress your guests. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup powdered sugar, divided

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)

  • Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

  3. Add the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the butter mixture and mix until combined.

  4. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.

  5. Stir in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed.

  6. Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden at the edges.

  8. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

  9. While the cookies are still warm, roll them in the remaining powdered sugar to coat.

  10. Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 160 kcal | Servings: 18 cookies

The Origins of Snowball Cookies

Snowball cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or Viennese Sugar Balls, have a rich history that spans many cultures. The origin of snowball cookies can be traced back to several European countries, each with its version of a buttery, nutty cookie dusted with powdered sugar. These cookies have long been a favorite for holiday celebrations and special events. The addition of coconut to the traditional recipe offers a modern twist, enhancing the flavor with a subtle, tropical sweetness that complements the tangy lemon.

Why Lemon and Coconut Make the Perfect Pair

Lemon and coconut might seem like an unlikely pair at first, but they complement each other in ways that make these cookies irresistible. Lemon, with its bright, tart flavor, cuts through the richness of the coconut, providing a refreshing contrast. Coconut, on the other hand, adds a chewy texture and a naturally sweet flavor that balances the citrusy zing of the lemon. Together, they create a harmonious blend that makes each bite of the Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies feel like a little burst of sunshine.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies

To ensure your Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies turn out perfectly, here are some baking tips to keep in mind:

  • Use Fresh Lemon Zest: The zest of the lemon contains the essential oils, which are the most aromatic and flavorful part of the fruit. For the best taste, make sure to use fresh zest and avoid the pith, which can add bitterness to the cookies.

  • Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps the cookies hold their shape better during baking. This step prevents the cookies from spreading too much and ensures they stay soft and delicate.

  • Don’t Overbake: One of the keys to a perfect snowball cookie is a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Be sure to keep an eye on the cookies while they bake and remove them from the oven as soon as they begin to turn golden brown around the edges. Overbaking will result in a firmer texture that isn’t as enjoyable.

  • Roll in Powdered Sugar While Warm: To achieve that signature snowball appearance, roll your cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm. This will ensure the sugar sticks well to the cookies, giving them a nice, even coating.

Creative Variations on Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies

While the traditional Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies are perfect on their own, there are plenty of ways to add a personal touch to the recipe. Here are a few creative variations you can try:

  • Add White Chocolate Chips: For a creamy twist, fold in some white chocolate chips into the dough. The smooth, sweet chocolate will complement the lemon and coconut, adding an extra layer of richness to the cookies.

  • Coconut Macaroons: If you love coconut, consider making these cookies into coconut macaroons by adding more shredded coconut and baking them into small mounds. This variation will give you a denser, more coconut-forward cookie that still retains the bright lemon flavor.

  • Lemon Glaze: After baking and dusting the cookies with powdered sugar, drizzle a lemon glaze over the top for an extra burst of lemon flavor. Simply combine powdered sugar with lemon juice until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency, and drizzle it over the cookies before serving.

  • Nutty Snowball Cookies: You can add finely chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the dough for a nutty twist. These nuts will add texture and flavor, making the cookies even more irresistible.

  • Lemon-Lime Snowball Cookies: If you’re looking for a slightly different citrus flavor, swap out some of the lemon zest and juice for lime zest and juice. This citrusy variation adds a fun twist while keeping the cookie refreshing and bright.

Serving and Storing Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies

These cookies are versatile and can be served at a variety of occasions. They are perfect for holiday cookie trays, potluck parties, or just as a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee. Their light, buttery texture and subtle coconut and lemon flavors make them a crowd-pleaser, and they are ideal for both casual and formal gatherings.

When it comes to storing these cookies, they should be kept in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If stored properly, Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies can stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature. You can also freeze the dough ahead of time. Simply roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on the baking sheet and bake as usual, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Why You Should Try Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies

Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the combination of citrus and coconut. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these cookies are easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them an accessible dessert option for any occasion. The process of making these cookies is simple and straightforward, yet the result is an impressive and delicious treat that will have everyone coming back for more.

Conclusion

Lemon Coconut Snowball Cookies are a timeless dessert that brings together the best of citrus and coconut in a way that is both refreshing and satisfying. With their delicate, buttery texture and the perfect balance of tart lemon and sweet coconut, these cookies are a delightful addition to any baking repertoire. Whether you’re following the classic recipe or adding your own personal twist, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a batch of these irresistible cookies that are sure to bring joy to your taste buds and brighten your day.

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