Orange Snowballs
Sweet orange snowballs combine crunchy pecans, coconut, and tangy orange flavor, making them perfect for festive gatherings or a delightful treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix vanilla wafer crumbs, melted margarine, 1 cup of powdered sugar, chopped pecans, and undiluted frozen orange juice until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Mix softened margarine and the remaining powdered sugar with enough milk until the mixture is easy to spread.
- Roll the orange balls in the sugar mixture, then coat with flaked coconut.
- Store in an airtight container and let set for 3 to 4 days before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or using crushed walnuts instead of pecans. If you want a variation, try using different citrus juices like lemon or grapefruit for a unique twist. For a gluten-free option, ensure your vanilla wafer crumbs are made from gluten-free cookies. These can also be shaped into larger balls for a more substantial treat.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful treats make a wonderful addition to any holiday spread or dessert table, especially alongside other sweet treats like Bohemian Crescents or White Ball Cookies. Serve them chilled for a refreshing bite or alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair nicely with fresh fruit to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Orange Snowballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can be made in advance and will actually taste better after a few days as the flavors meld. For best results, allow them to sit for 3 to 4 days before serving, but if you prefer them fresher, they can be enjoyed right away.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Snowballs contains roughly 1074 calories, with 4g protein, 178g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular orange juice instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use regular orange juice, but the flavor may not be as concentrated. If using fresh juice, you might want to reduce the amount slightly to avoid making the mixture too wet. Frozen orange juice gives a more intense flavor, which enhances the overall taste of the Orange Snowballs.
How long can I keep these treats?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Orange Snowballs can last up to two weeks. They may become softer over time, but the flavors will continue to develop, making them a delicious treat even after several days. Just be sure to check for freshness before serving.
Can I make these without coconut?
Absolutely! If you or your guests aren't fans of coconut, you can roll the Orange Snowballs in crushed nuts, cocoa powder, or even leave them plain for a simpler presentation. The coconut adds texture and flavor, but the recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).