Welcome, cookie lovers! Today, we’re diving into a festive recipe that’s guaranteed to make your taste buds dance – Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies! Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies bring together the tangy zest of lime and the sweetness of cranberry, wrapped up in a tender, buttery snowball. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for a simple, delicious cookie recipe, you’ll love how easy these Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies are to make. Get ready to fill your home with the warm scent of these delightful treats!
Introduction
Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies blend two beloved flavors in a truly unique way. These cookies are inspired by traditional snowball cookies, a classic treat during the holiday season, known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and snowy, powdered sugar coating. Adding lime zest and cranberry preserves to this recipe gives a refreshing twist that will remind you of a cozy winter day. This Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies recipe is ideal for holiday parties, gift-giving, or just treating yourself. Plus, they’re simple to make and look gorgeous on any dessert table – let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cranberry preserves
- Additional powdered sugar, for coating
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:
- Butter: Use unsalted to control the flavor; for a dairy-free version, swap with plant-based butter.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds that signature snowy coating. Be sure to sift for a smoother texture.
- Lime Zest: Substitute with lemon zest for a different citrusy twist.
- Cranberry Preserves: You can use raspberry or apricot preserves if cranberry isn’t available.
How to Make Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter Mixture In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter, powdered sugar, and lime zest together until light and fluffy. This step ensures the cookies are soft and tender.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients Stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, mixing until you achieve a soft dough.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies with Cranberry Filling Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough. Flatten it slightly in your hand, then place a small dollop of cranberry preserves in the center. Carefully wrap the dough around the cranberry filling, forming a ball. Make sure the preserves are completely enclosed.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
Step 6: Roll in Powdered Sugar Let the cookies cool for a few minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. This initial coating adheres nicely. Once completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a final snowy finish.
Helpful Tips for Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies
- Keep Butter Cool: Slightly softened butter yields a dough that’s easier to shape.
- Avoid Sticky Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it for 10-15 minutes to make handling easier.
- Prevent Leaks: Be gentle when wrapping the dough around the cranberry filling to avoid any leaks during baking.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies
- Use Fresh Lime Zest: Freshly zested lime brightens the flavor and gives a refreshing aroma.
- Powdered Sugar Coating: Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar ensures a thick, snowy coat for an eye-catching presentation.
- Baking Time: Check the cookies at 12 minutes; a light golden bottom is ideal for the perfect tender bite.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies
These Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies pair beautifully with a cozy cup of tea or hot chocolate, making them an ideal addition to your afternoon snack or holiday dessert spread. They also look wonderful arranged on a holiday tray with other cookies. Add a sprinkle of lime zest or crushed dried cranberries on top for a decorative touch, and serve with fresh cranberries or slices of lime for a colorful presentation!
Nutritional Information
Packed with butter and a touch of sweetness, these cookies are a delicious treat for any occasion. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional value of Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies:
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 11g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 1g
Storage and Leftovers for Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cookies at room temperature and roll them in a fresh coating of powdered sugar if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies
1. Can I use different flavors for the filling? Yes! Try raspberry, strawberry, or apricot preserves for a different fruity twist.
2. How do I prevent the cranberry filling from leaking? Ensure you fully enclose the preserves with dough. Chilling the dough before shaping also helps.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Absolutely. Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
4. How can I add more lime flavor? You can add a bit of lime juice to the dough, but make sure not to add too much, as it may affect the texture.
Related Recipes for Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookie Lovers
Looking for more delightful treats to add to your holiday baking list? Check out these similar recipes from OptimalRecipes:
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cookie that’s both delightful to eat and beautiful to present, Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies are the perfect choice. With their tender, buttery base and tangy-sweet cranberry filling, these cookies will be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Try them out, and don’t forget to share your creations or any fun twists on this recipe in the comments below!
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Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies – Festive Holiday Treat
Description
Welcome, cookie lovers! Today, we’re diving into a festive recipe that’s guaranteed to make your taste buds dance – Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies! Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies bring together the tangy zest of lime and the sweetness of cranberry, wrapped up in a tender, buttery snowball. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for a simple, delicious cookie recipe, you’ll love how easy these Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies are to make. Get ready to fill your home with the warm scent of these delightful treats!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cranberry preserves
- Additional powdered sugar, for coating
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:
- Butter: Use unsalted to control the flavor; for a dairy-free version, swap with plant-based butter.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds that signature snowy coating. Be sure to sift for a smoother texture.
- Lime Zest: Substitute with lemon zest for a different citrusy twist.
- Cranberry Preserves: You can use raspberry or apricot preserves if cranberry isn’t available.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter Mixture In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter, powdered sugar, and lime zest together until light and fluffy. This step ensures the cookies are soft and tender.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients Stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, mixing until you achieve a soft dough.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies with Cranberry Filling Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough. Flatten it slightly in your hand, then place a small dollop of cranberry preserves in the center. Carefully wrap the dough around the cranberry filling, forming a ball. Make sure the preserves are completely enclosed.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
Step 6: Roll in Powdered Sugar Let the cookies cool for a few minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. This initial coating adheres nicely. Once completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a final snowy finish.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Keep Butter Cool: Slightly softened butter yields a dough that’s easier to shape.
- Avoid Sticky Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it for 10-15 minutes to make handling easier.
- Prevent Leaks: Be gentle when wrapping the dough around the cranberry filling to avoid any leaks during baking.
