Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies Recipe

The Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies are an absolute delight for your taste buds and the perfect treat to brighten up any occasion. These charming little cookies blend the tartness of dried cranberries with the bright, zesty freshness of orange, all wrapped in a tender buttery dough that melts in your mouth. Soft yet crumbly, dusted generously with powdered sugar, they look just like delicate snowballs ready to bring joy to your holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. If you love cookies that are flavorful but not overwhelming, these are bound to become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies. Each component plays a vital role, from the creamy butter that gives softness to the dough, to the orange zest that lifts the flavor with a fresh citrusy sparkle.

• Unsalted Butter (1/2 Cup): Softened to room temperature, it creates the rich, tender base for the dough.
• Powdered Sugar for Dough (1/4 Cup): Adds a delicate sweetness that balances perfectly with the tart cranberries.
• Salt (1/2 Teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors — don’t skip this little boost.
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 Teaspoon): Imparts a warm, comforting aroma that rounds out the citrus and cranberry.
• Chopped Dried Cranberries (1/2 Cup): Adds tangy bursts and a lovely chewy texture throughout each cookie.
• Orange Zest (1 Tablespoon): Brightens the cookie with fresh, citrus oils that awaken the palate.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 Cup): The structure for your cookie, ensuring just the right crumbly texture.
• Powdered Sugar for Coating (1/2 Cup): Essential for the final snowball effect, coating each cookie in sweet, snowy white perfection.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture turns light and creamy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, which helps create those tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that feel soft and delicate with every bite.

Step 2: Blend in Vanilla and Salt

Add the vanilla extract and salt to the creamy butter mixture, stirring well. The vanilla adds a subtle sweet warmth, while the salt brings out the cookie’s flavors, balancing the sweetness and brightening the other ingredients.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour and Orange Zest

Gently mix the all-purpose flour and fresh orange zest into the batter using a spatula. The flour provides the perfect crumbly texture, while the orange zest ensures every bite is filled with a refreshing citrus aroma that’s unmistakably uplifting.

Step 4: Fold in the Dried Cranberries

Now, stir in the chopped dried cranberries. These little bursts of tartness add personality and a chewy contrast that makes the Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies uniquely delicious and perfect for any season.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in cling film and pop it into the refrigerator for about an hour or until it firms up. Chilling is essential as it makes rolling the dough easier and helps the cookies keep their shape during baking.

Step 6: Prepare to Bake

Take your dough out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Then roll it into small 1-inch balls. This size ensures a perfect balance between a crisp exterior and a tender interior.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the cookie balls on a lined baking tray with space between each one and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 15 minutes. Look for the bottoms to turn just slightly golden, signaling that delicious caramelization happening beneath the cookies.

Step 8: Coat in Powdered Sugar

While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar. Once they cool, roll them again for an extra snowy finish. This double coating gives the Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies their signature look and adds a lovely sweet crunch with every bite.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a few additional dried cranberries or a tiny pinch of orange zest on top of the powdered sugar coating. This not only enhances the presentation but also amps up the flavors you love.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea, fresh coffee, or even a glass of chilled milk. For a grown-up twist, serve with mulled wine or spiced cider to make your cozy moments even more memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

Present these snowball cookies in a rustic gift box lined with parchment paper for a charming homemade gift. Or arrange them on a festive platter adorned with sprigs of pine or holly for holiday gatherings — their snowy appearance naturally invites warmth and cheer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and coated in powdered sugar, store your Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and tender for up to one week, perfect for savoring slowly or sharing with friends.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies in advance, they freeze wonderfully. Arrange the unbaked dough balls on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw — just add a couple of minutes to the baking time for delicious fresh cookies anytime.

Reheating

To enjoy thawed or leftover baked cookies as if freshly made, warm them gently in the oven at low temperature for 5 to 7 minutes. They’ll regain a bit of that just-baked charm while keeping their crumbly texture intact.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried in Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies?

Fresh cranberries are much juicier and contain more moisture, which could affect the texture of the cookies. It’s best to stick with dried cranberries to maintain that perfect chewy bite without making the dough too wet.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?

Absolutely! Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to roll into neat balls. It also prevents spreading during baking, helping your cookies stay perfectly round and snowball-like.

Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange zest?

While orange extract can add flavor, fresh zest provides vibrant, natural oils that make a big difference in aroma and brightness. For those extra special Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies, fresh zest is worth the extra effort.

How do I prevent the cookies from sticking when rolling?

Lightly flour your hands or the rolling surface to keep the dough from sticking. Also, chilling the dough well helps it become less sticky and easier to handle.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that’s suitable for baking. Keep an eye on the dough’s texture and adjust slightly with a little more flour if it feels too soft.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies. With their lovely balance of tart, sweet, and citrusy flavors, along with their charming snowy appearance, they are sure to become one of your go-to treats for any season. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just to treat yourself, these cookies will fill your kitchen with warmth and happiness. I can’t wait for you to try them and make the recipe your own!

Print