Orange Balls, sometimes called no-bake orange cookies, are a sweet Southern-style treat that bridges the gap between candy and cookies. They became especially popular in mid-20th-century American kitchens as holiday or party sweets because they are easy to prepare and require no baking. With crushed vanilla wafers, pecans, powdered sugar, and coconut bound together by melted margarine and tangy orange juice concentrate, these bite-sized confections deliver a nostalgic balance of sweet and citrusy flavors. Their chewy texture and tropical notes of coconut make them a festive choice for Christmas cookie trays, potlucks, or edible gifts.
Ingredients
- 12 oz vanilla wafers (finely crushed)
- 1 cup pecans (ground)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 16 oz frozen orange juice concentrate (thawed)
- ½ cup margarine (melted)
- 1 – 1 ¼ flaked coconut
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Base
- Combine crushed vanilla wafers, pecans, and powdered sugar in a large bowl.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Add thawed orange juice concentrate and melted margarine to the dry mixture. Stir until well blended.
Step 3: Rest Mixture
- Let stand for 5 minutes to allow the mixture to absorb liquid.
Step 4: Shape Dough
- Form dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each.
Step 5: Roll in Coconut
- Roll each ball in flaked coconut until well coated.
Step 6: Store and Serve
- For best flavor, store in a covered container in a cool place for several days before serving.
Tips
- Substitute butter for margarine for a richer flavor.
- Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- For a tropical twist, add chopped dried pineapple.
- Roll in powdered sugar instead of coconut for a different coating.
- Freeze for up to 3 months to prepare ahead for holidays.
Nutrition
Calories: 110kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 45mgPotassium: 35mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 80IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.3mg
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