Why make this recipe

Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright flavor of orange. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, dusted with powdered sugar, adds to their charm.

How to make Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the chopped cranberries.
Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes, then roll them in additional powdered sugar.
Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

How to serve Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies

These cookies are perfect on their own or served with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also place them in decorative boxes or tins for gifting during holidays. They make a sweet addition to any dessert table, bringing color and flavor to your spread.

how to store Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week. You can also refrigerate them for longer storage, but remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Tips to make Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies

Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Use fresh orange zest for a more vibrant flavor.
If you like nuts, feel free to add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for added crunch.

variation

To change things up, you can substitute dried cranberries with other dried fruits like cherries or apricots. You could also add a hint of almond extract for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
It is best to use dried cranberries as fresh cranberries are too moist and tart. Dried cranberries add sweetness and help maintain the cookie’s structure.

2. Is it necessary to roll the cookies in powdered sugar?
Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar adds sweetness and gives them a lovely snowy appearance. However, if you prefer, you can skip this step.

3. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just roll it into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.