Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies: A Festive Delight for Any Occasion

There’s something magical about biting into a tender, buttery cookie that melts in your mouth, revealing a burst of sweet and tangy cranberry filling. These Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table, a cozy tea-time treat, or a gift for someone special. They combine the zesty brightness of lime, the rich sweetness of cranberries, and a delicate powdered sugar coating that makes them look like little snowballs. Let’s dive into how you can create this irresistibly festive treat!

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies

Picture this: the warmth of your kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies, the excitement of rolling them in snowy powdered sugar, and the joy of sharing these delightful bites with loved ones. These cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re a labor of love that brings people together. Plus, they’re easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to impress with their vibrant flavor and unique filling.

Ingredients for Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies

Cookie Dough:

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Unsalted Butter (softened)	1 cup	Adds richness and tenderness
Powdered Sugar	½ cup	Sweetens and creates a smooth texture
Lime Zest	Zest of 1 lime	Adds a refreshing citrusy note
Vanilla Extract	1 tsp	Enhances overall flavor
All-Purpose Flour	2 cups	Forms the structure of the cookies
Salt	¼ tsp	Balances sweetness

Filling:

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Cranberry Preserves	½ cup	Adds a tangy, fruity surprise in the center

Coating:

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Powdered Sugar	Additional, for coating	Creates the signature snowy finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Cream the Butter Mixture

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, powdered sugar, and lime zest together. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

3. Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients

Stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing just until you achieve a soft dough. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

4. Shape the Cookies with Cranberry Filling

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a small dollop of cranberry preserves in the center, then carefully wrap the dough around the filling, forming a ball. Make sure the preserves are completely enclosed to prevent them from leaking during baking.

5. Bake to Perfection

Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake—the cookies should remain pale on top for a tender texture.

6. Roll in Powdered Sugar

Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before handling. While they’re still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. This initial coating will adhere beautifully. Once the cookies have cooled completely, roll them in powdered sugar again for that perfect snowy finish.

Optional Twists to Customize Your Cookies

1. Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine for a dairy-free version.
2. Citrus Alternatives: Swap lime zest with lemon or orange zest for a different citrus profile.
3. Different Fillings: Try raspberry or apricot preserves for a new flavor combination.
4. Nutty Addition: Mix finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and nuttiness.
5. Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm, spiced twist.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies

• Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the best creaming consistency.
• Seal the Filling: Take care to fully enclose the cranberry preserves to avoid leaks during baking.
• Double Coating: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar twice ensures a perfect, snowy appearance.
• Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft, chill it for 15–20 minutes before shaping the cookies.
• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	120
Total Fat	7g
Protein	1g
Carbohydrates	15g
Sugars	8g

FAQs About Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

2. What if I don’t have cranberry preserves?

You can substitute with raspberry, strawberry, or apricot preserves for a different flavor.

3. Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze the baked and cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

4. How do I keep the cookies from spreading?

Make sure to chill the dough if it becomes too soft, and avoid over-creaming the butter and sugar.

5. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to ⅛ teaspoon.

6. How do I get a smooth powdered sugar coating?

Sift the powdered sugar before rolling the cookies for a finer, smoother finish.

Conclusion: Delight Your Taste Buds with Every Bite

These Cranberry Lime Snowball Cookies are the perfect combination of tangy, sweet, and buttery flavors wrapped in a festive, snowy exterior. Whether you’re making them for a special holiday, a party, or a cozy treat at home, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking these delightful snowballs today. Once you try them, you’ll be coming back for more!

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