Orange Blossom Balls: A Sweet Citrus Treat

Orange Blossom Balls are a delightful no-bake treat that combines the zesty tang of orange juice concentrate with the sweetness of coconut and vanilla wafers. Perfect for holidays, parties, or simply as a quick dessert to enjoy with family, these bite-sized confections are easy to make and require no oven time. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite nuts or additional flavors.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through creating these citrusy, chewy, and sweet treats while sharing tips, tricks, and answers to common questions along the way.

Ingredients for Orange Blossom Balls

Base Ingredients

1 box vanilla wafers (12 oz), finely crushed

1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 can orange juice concentrate (6 oz, thawed and undiluted)

Flavor and Texture Additions

1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds work well)

1 package flaked sweetened coconut (14 oz)

How to Make Orange Blossom Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Crush the vanilla wafers: Use a food processor or a resealable bag and rolling pin to crush the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs.
Mix with sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers with the confectioners’ sugar. Stir until evenly distributed.

Tip: For a smoother texture, sift the powdered sugar before mixing.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Incorporate the orange juice concentrate: Pour the thawed, undiluted orange juice concentrate into the bowl with the dry mixture.
Add the nuts: Stir in the finely chopped nuts of your choice. Mix well until the mixture forms a sticky dough.

Tip: Chilling the mixture for 10–15 minutes can make it easier to shape the balls.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

Form the balls: Scoop a small amount of dough (about 1–2 teaspoons) and roll it between your palms to form a ball.
Roll in coconut: Spread the sweetened coconut on a plate or shallow dish. Roll each ball in the coconut until fully coated.

Tip: If the coconut doesn’t stick well, slightly dampen the balls with a drop of water before rolling.

Step 4: Store and Enjoy

Refrigerate: Place the finished Orange Blossom Balls in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serve chilled: These treats are best enjoyed cold, as the flavors meld beautifully after chilling.

Tips for Perfect Orange Blossom Balls

Choose the Right Nuts: Pecans are a popular choice for their buttery flavor, but walnuts or almonds add a lovely crunch too. Toast the nuts beforehand for an extra layer of flavor.
Customize the Coating: If you’re not a fan of coconut, try rolling the balls in finely chopped nuts, powdered sugar, or even colored sugar for a festive touch.
Adjust the Consistency: If the dough feels too dry, add a small amount of additional orange juice concentrate. If it’s too wet, mix in more crushed vanilla wafers.
Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note, or mix in a teaspoon of orange zest for extra citrus zing.
Make Ahead: These balls store well in the refrigerator for up to a week or can be frozen for longer storage, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time.

Variations

1. Chocolate-Orange Blossom Balls

Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the mixture for a chocolaty twist, or dip the finished balls in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.

2. Lemon Blossom Balls

Replace the orange juice concentrate with lemon juice concentrate for a tangy lemon version. Pair with white chocolate for a complementary flavor.

3. Festive Orange Blossom Balls

Roll the balls in red or green sanding sugar instead of coconut to make them festive for holiday gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh orange juice instead of concentrate?

Using orange juice concentrate is key to achieving the intense orange flavor in this recipe. Fresh orange juice is not recommended, as it lacks the same depth of flavor and thick consistency.

2. How do I store Orange Blossom Balls?

Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

3. Can I make these nut-free?

Yes! Simply omit the nuts or replace them with an alternative like sunflower seeds or additional coconut for a nut-free version.

4. Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?

You can substitute gluten-free vanilla wafers or cookies to make this recipe gluten-free. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

5. What’s the best way to crush vanilla wafers?

A food processor works best for evenly crushed wafers. Alternatively, place the wafers in a resealable bag and use a rolling pin to crush them finely.

6. Can I make these without coconut?

Absolutely! Roll the balls in powdered sugar, finely chopped nuts, or even crushed graham crackers for a coconut-free option.

Orange Blossom Balls are a crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to prepare and full of bright, zesty flavor. Whether you’re making them for a party, a holiday gathering, or a sweet snack, these citrusy delights are sure to impress. Enjoy their soft texture and tangy-sweet flavor, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family! 🧡