Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for the holiday season. With a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the zesty freshness of orange zest paired with sweet-tart cranberries, these cookies are as festive as they are delicious. Whether you’re preparing them for a Christmas cookie exchange or simply for an afternoon indulgence, they are sure to impress.
What Are Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies?
These cookies are a variation of traditional snowball cookies, known for their round shape and powdered sugar coating that resembles snow. The addition of orange zest and dried cranberries makes them bright and flavorful, perfect for winter celebrations or as a homemade gift for loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these cookies beginner-friendly.
- Festive Flavor: The combination of cranberries and orange zest is a seasonal favorite.
- Perfect Texture: Buttery and tender with a crumbly finish, they’re a joy to bite into.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These cookies stay fresh for days and freeze well for longer storage.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (90 g) dried cranberries, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract until evenly incorporated.
Forming the Dough
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Shaping the Cookies
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, approximately the size of a walnut. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 1 inch apart.
Baking
- Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
Finishing Touches
- Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes. While still warm, roll them in powdered sugar until coated.
- Once completely cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cookies with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or mulled cider for a cozy winter snack. They also make an elegant addition to holiday cookie platters.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
- Place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
- Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Citrus Swap: Substitute the orange zest with lemon or lime zest for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure powdered sugar is vegan-certified.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
No, fresh cranberries would introduce too much moisture. Stick with dried cranberries for the best texture.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling is not necessary for this recipe as the cookies hold their shape well during baking.
Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies bring a burst of festive flavor to your holiday table. With their delicate texture, zesty citrus notes, and sweet powdered sugar coating, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite. Give them a try and share the joy with family and friends—don’t forget to let us know how they turn out!
Print
Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Description
Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats with bright orange zest and sweet-tart cranberries. Perfect for the holiday season, these cookies are rolled in powdered sugar for a festive snowy finish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup (90 g) dried cranberries, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add orange zest and vanilla extract; mix well.
- Prepare Dough: Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Fold in chopped dried cranberries.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
- Coat in Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Once fully cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding ½ teaspoon of almond extract or swapping orange zest for lemon zest.
- Ensure the butter is fully softened for a smooth dough.
- To prevent sticking, coat your hands lightly with powdered sugar when shaping the dough balls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110 per serving