Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies - Festive Holiday Treat

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

Scale
  • 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.

Notes

  • 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.