As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a vibrant haven filled with the irresistible scent of spices and sweet treats. One of my all-time favorites to bake during this time are Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies. Just thinking about the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness enveloped in a fluffy layer of powdered sugar brings a warm smile to my face. The tartness of dried cranberries paired with the zesty brightness of orange creates a delightful flavor that dances on the palate—truly capturing the essence of festive gatherings.

I stumbled upon this delightful recipe when searching for something simple yet impressive for my holiday cookie swap. With their charming snowy appearance, these cookies are not just a treat to the taste buds but also a visual delight on any dessert table. Best of all, they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your time with loved ones. Join me as I share this easy recipe that will surely become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire!

Why are Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies a must-bake?

Holiday cheer fills your kitchen as these cookies transform it into a fragrant winter wonderland. Elegant simplicity makes this recipe approachable for bakers of all skill levels. Flavor explosion occurs with the tart cranberries and bright orange zest, elevating these treats to festive heights. Make-ahead convenience means less stress during the busy holiday season. Whether you’re sharing with friends or presenting at gatherings, these cookies will impress everyone with their snowy appearance and delightful taste!

Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure butter is softened for easy creaming.
Powdered Sugar (for dough) – Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookies’ texture.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness effectively.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; use high-quality extract for best results.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; make sure it’s measured correctly to avoid dry dough.
Orange Zest – Gives a citrusy spark, enhancing the cookies’ festive appeal; substitute with lemon or lime zest for variation.
Dried Cranberries (chopped) – Adds tartness and a chewy texture; fresh cranberries should be avoided as they release too much liquid.

For the Coating

Powdered Sugar (for coating) – Used to roll cookies post-baking for a delightful snowy finish.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies

Cream together softened butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures your cookies are tender and rich!
Mix in vanilla extract and salt thoroughly until well combined. Feel free to savor the delightful aroma of the vanilla, as it blends seamlessly with the buttery base.
Gradually add all-purpose flour and orange zest, folding them into the creamed mixture until just combined. Be gentle to maintain the airy texture that makes these cookies melt-in-your-mouth!
Gently stir in the chopped dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This will add pops of tartness in every bite of your delicious cookies.
Wrap the dough in cling film and chill it in the refrigerator for 1 hour. This is a crucial step to keep the cookies from spreading during baking!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) while waiting for the dough to chill. This is the perfect time to prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
Allow the dough to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it into balls. This makes the dough easier to work with and helps achieve that perfectly round shape.
Shape the dough into one-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie for spreading.
Bake for about 15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale to keep the snowy appearance intact!
Cool the cookies slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm. This step creates the signature snowy coating, and be sure to roll them again once cooled for that extra touch!

Optional: Serve with a warm beverage for an added holiday delight!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies

Chill the Dough: Ensure the dough is chilled for at least one hour. This step is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading and losing their shape during baking.
Zest Wisely: Avoid zesting the white pith of the orange, which can impart a bitter taste to your cookies. Focus on just the bright orange skin for the best flavor.
Double Coating: Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar for an initial snowy appearance, and then do it again once they’ve cooled. This creates a beautiful, thick sugar coating that enhances presentation.
Proper Storage: Keep your baked Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Dough can be refrigerated or frozen for future baking.
Flavor Variations: Experiment by substituting dried cranberries with other dried fruits like cherries or apricots, or swap out the orange zest for lemon or lime zest for new flavor twists.

Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies Variations

Customize your cookie experience with these delightful twists, ensuring every batch is just perfect for your taste!

Dried Fruit Swap: Replace dried cranberries with dried cherries, blueberries, or raisins for a unique flavor profile that’s equally festive. Each fruit brings its own charm to this classic recipe!
Citrus Zest: Substitute orange zest with lemon or lime zest for a refreshing citrus twist. The brightness will still sing through but with a different, lively note!
Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor. They pair beautifully with the buttery texture of these cookies.
Chocolatey Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate for a rich touch. There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and orange that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Gluten-Free Alternative: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. Your friends with dietary restrictions will adore your thoughtful baking!
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that highlights the holiday season beautifully. It’s like a cozy blanket for your taste buds!
Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a substitute for eggs. These changes will keep the cookies utterly delicious while catering to plant-based diets.
Extra Sweetness: Roll the cookies in a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon after baking for a sweet twist that adds an autumnal feel to the snowy exterior. It’s a delightful surprise with every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in cling film and refrigerating. Alternatively, for longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. To maintain quality, ensure the dough is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, then allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling into balls and baking. This way, you’ll have delicious, freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, making your holiday preparations a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture and taste.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container; however, note that this may slightly alter the texture.
Freezer (Dough): For make-ahead convenience, freeze the unbaked cookie dough wrapped tightly in cling film or in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Freezer (Baked Cookies): You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.

What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies?

These delightful little treats can shine even brighter when paired with the right accompaniments that enhance their festive spirit and flavor.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy sweetness of hot cocoa complements the tangy cranberry perfectly, creating a warm, cozy experience.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea beautifully balance the buttery cookies, making every bite a comforting delight.
Festive Fruit Salad: A colorful blend of fresh fruits adds a refreshing brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the cookie’s sweetness.
Cream Cheese Frosted Gingerbread: This spiced delight pairs wonderfully with the citrus notes in the cookies, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider for a heartwarming seasonal drink that brings out the flavors of the cookies.
Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti: Offering a crunchy texture, biscotti dipped in chocolate creates a delightful contrast and an elegant touch to your dessert table.
Nutty Granola: Crumble some nutty granola on top of yogurt for a complementary crunch that pairs well with the cookie’s soft, buttery texture.
Pumpkin Pie: The classic flavors of holiday pumpkin pie resonate well with the cookies, making them a perfect duo on any festive table.
Eggnog: Rich and creamy eggnog, with its comforting spices, provides a fragrant and indulgent pairing with the cookies for holiday celebrations.

Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, particularly the dried cranberries, look for ones that are moist, plump, and vibrant in color. Avoid any that have hard or dark spots as they can be past their prime. For the orange zest, opt for bright oranges with smooth skin, as they have more essential oils that will enhance the flavor of the cookies.

How should I store Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies?
Store your baked Cranberry Orange Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps them maintain their lovely texture and flavor. If you live in a humid environment, you may want to refrigerate them for slightly longer preservation, up to two weeks, although this might alter the texture a bit.

Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Absolutely! For freezing the dough, wrap it tightly in cling film or place it in a freezer-safe bag, and it will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling into balls and baking. If you prefer to freeze already baked cookies, you can do so for up to two months. Just layer them in an airtight container, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much during baking?
Very! If you find that your cookies are spreading more than expected, it may be due to the dough not being chilled long enough. Be sure to chill the dough for at least one hour before baking. If the problem persists, consider checking your butter temperature; it should be softened but not melted. Lastly, ensure your oven temperature is accurate with an oven thermometer, as baking at too low a temperature can also contribute to spreading.

Are these cookies safe for pets or anyone with allergies?
When it comes to feeding these cookies to pets, it’s best to avoid it as they contain ingredients like butter and powdered sugar, which aren’t good for dogs or cats. As for allergies, always check the labels of your ingredients for potential allergens, particularly if you’re using variations or substitutes. If you’re making these for someone with specific dietary needs, consider swapping in allergen-friendly alternatives like gluten-free flour or using a vegan butter substitute.