These cranberry orange snowball cookies are tender, buttery, and delicately sweet, with pops of tangy dried cranberries and a refreshing hint of orange zest. Coated generously in powdered sugar, they melt in your mouth and make a beautiful treat for holidays, celebrations, or anytime you crave a special homemade cookie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are incredibly easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients and no complicated techniques. The combination of tart cranberries and bright orange zest balances the rich, buttery base perfectly. They are freezer-friendly, ideal for making ahead during busy seasons, and they also make a thoughtful homemade gift thanks to their festive look and long shelf life.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar (for the dough)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for coating the baked cookies)

Directions

1. Add the softened butter and ¼ cup powdered sugar to a mixing bowl. Cream them together until the mixture becomes light and smooth.
2. Add the vanilla extract and salt, then mix until fully combined.
3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and orange zest, gently mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Fold in the chopped dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
5. Wrap the dough tightly and refrigerate it for 1 hour, or until firm.
6. Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
7. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and let it rest for a few minutes at room temperature.
8. Scoop and roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking tray.
9. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
10. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool slightly.
11. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar.
12. Once fully cooled, roll them again in powdered sugar for a bright white, snowball finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 27 cookies.
Preparation time is about 20 minutes, baking time is 15 minutes, and chilling time is 1 hour.
Total time required is approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Variations

You can substitute orange zest with lemon zest for a different citrus flavor. Dried cherries, raisins, or dried blueberries can replace cranberries if desired. For extra texture, finely chopped nuts can be added to the dough. A touch of almond or citrus extract can also be used instead of vanilla for a flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

Once completely cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the baked and sugar-coated cookies in an airtight container for up to two months, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature and roll again in powdered sugar before serving. The unbaked dough can be refrigerated for up to two days or frozen for up to three months.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but omit the added salt from the recipe to avoid over-seasoning.

Why do my cookies spread too much?

Skipping the chilling step can cause excessive spreading. Always chill the dough before baking.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative with similar fat content.

Do I need to chop the cranberries?

Yes, chopping ensures even distribution and prevents large pieces from breaking the dough.

Can I use fresh cranberries?

Fresh cranberries are not recommended as they add excess moisture and bitterness.

Why should I roll the cookies while warm?

Warm cookies help the powdered sugar adhere better, creating the classic snowball coating.

Can I roll the cookies only once in sugar?

You can, but rolling them twice gives a brighter white and more traditional snowball appearance.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The bottoms should be lightly golden while the tops remain pale.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Yes, they hold their shape well, store easily, and look festive, making them perfect for gifting.

Conclusion

Cranberry orange snowball cookies are a delightful blend of buttery richness, tart fruit, and citrusy freshness. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and snowy appearance, they are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simple sweet cravings. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again.

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