Ingredients
Ingredients for the Angel Food Balls
Ingredients for the Cranberry Filling
For Decoration
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk or mixer to beat the egg whites until they are frothy.
Gradually add in the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes glossy and forms stiff peaks. This is crucial for the light texture of your angel food balls.
Next, gently fold in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that airy texture!
Step 2
Using a spoon or a piping bag, scoop the batter into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between them for expansion.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are lightly golden and spring back when touched. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 3
Combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the berries burst and the filling thickens.
Stir in the lemon juice and remove it from the heat. Allow the cranberry filling to cool down before using it.
Step 4
Once the angel food balls have cooled completely, use a small knife to cut a small hole in the center of each ball. This will be where you place the cranberry filling.
Using a small spoon, carefully fill each ball with the cooled cranberry filling. You can be generous here; they should look festive!
Step 5
For a delightful finish, dust the tops of the filled balls with powdered sugar. To add an extra touch, sprinkle some edible glitter if desired.
These cranberry-filled angel food balls are perfect for your holiday gathering. Enjoy the festive flavors and the joy they bring to your Christmas table!
Servings
Equipment
Choose a large mixing bowl to allow plenty of space for combining your ingredients. Glass bowls are great for heating mixtures in the microwave!
A sturdy whisk will help you achieve the perfect fluffy texture for your batter. Consider using a balloon whisk for best results.
Use a silicone spatula to fold the ingredients gently; it helps avoid deflating your batter while incorporating everything smoothly.
A non-stick or lined baking sheet will prevent sticking, making cleanup a breeze! Remember to leave space between the treats for even baking.
Variations
Don't worry if you or your guests have dietary restrictions; we've got you covered! ✨ You can easily make these snowballs gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check the blend you choose ensures a good rise!
If you want to whip up a vegan version, simply replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water = one egg). For the filling, use plant-based cream cheese or even a rich nut butter for an unexpected twist! 🌱💚 Keeping the festive spirit alive has never been easier!
Faq
- What if my snowballs are too flat?
This could be due to over-mixing or outdated leavening agents. Always check your ingredients for freshness and mix gently for the right texture.
- How do I know when my snowballs are baked perfectly?
Look for a light golden color and a slightly springy texture when you touch them. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean!
- Can I freeze these treats?
Absolutely! To maintain freshness, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They should keep well for a couple of months.
- Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen cranberries work beautifully! Just ensure they're thawed and drained properly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- What can I do with leftover filling?
Transform leftovers into a delicious topping for pancakes or waffles, or even swirl them into yogurt for a delightful snack!
- How can I enhance the flavor of the snowballs?
Add a touch of vanilla extract or almond extract, or mix in some citrus zests for a pop of refreshing flavor!