Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat combining the tartness of cranberries with the bright flavor of orange zest. These bite-sized cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a sweet, festive snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Stir in the orange zest and chopped cranberries.
- Step 2: Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Shape the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dough balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 4: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool slightly, then roll them in granulated sugar while still warm.
- Step 5: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
- Replace dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins for a different fruity twist.
- Use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar for rolling to create a softer exterior.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If desired, warm cookies slightly in the oven before serving to restore their soft texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries have more moisture and may affect the dough’s texture. If using fresh, chop them finely and pat dry to reduce moisture, or consider using dried cranberries for the best results.
Why do I roll the cookies in sugar after baking?
Rolling the cookies in sugar while they are still warm gives them a sweet, slightly crunchy coating that enhances their flavor and texture.
PrintCranberry Orange Snowball Cookies Recipe
Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies are delightful, buttery treats bursting with the tangy freshness of cranberries and bright citrus notes from orange zest. These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a festive, flavorful snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 medium orange)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
For Rolling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling cookies after baking)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the flour, salt, and orange zest, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Form Dough Balls: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the dough into small balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still look slightly soft.
- Cool and Roll in Sugar: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While they are still warm, gently roll each cookie in the 1/2 cup granulated sugar until fully coated, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Chopping dried cranberries into smaller pieces helps distribute flavor better and makes the cookie easier to eat.
- Rolling the cookies in sugar while warm gives them a beautiful crystalline coating, adding to the festive look and sweetness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a more intense orange flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract along with the zest.
Keywords: Cranberry Orange Cookies, Snowball Cookies, Holiday Cookies, Festive Cookies, Butter Cookies
