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This recipe transforms humble vanilla wafers into irresistible citrus treats that burst with orange flavor. The contrast between the sweet wafer base and the bright orange juice creates a perfect balance that makes these bite-sized delights addictively good.
I discovered this recipe during a sweltering summer when I needed something refreshing but sweet. My friends now request these at every gathering and I always keep a batch in the freezer for unexpected guests.
Ingredients
- Vanilla wafers: forms the foundation providing just the right amount of sweetness and structure
- Orange juice concentrate: delivers intense citrus flavor without making the mixture too wet
- Powdered sugar: adds sweetness while helping bind everything together
- Butter: creates richness and helps the balls hold their shape when chilled
- Chopped nuts: add wonderful texture contrast and nutty depth
- Sweetened coconut flakes: give a tropical touch and pretty appearance
- Pure vanilla extract: enhances the wafer flavor while complementing the orange
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Crush the Wafers:
- Place vanilla wafers in a food processor and pulse until you have fine crumbs with no large pieces remaining. The finer the crumbs the smoother your final texture will be. If using a rolling pin place wafers in a ziplock bag first to contain all the crumbs.
- Mix the Base:
- Combine crushed wafers powdered sugar softened butter orange juice concentrate vanilla and chopped nuts in a large bowl. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to work everything together until completely uniform. The mixture should be sticky but moldable if too wet add more powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time.
- Shape the Balls:
- Take about a tablespoon of mixture and roll between your palms to form a 1inch ball. Work quickly as the mixture softens with the heat of your hands. For perfectly uniform balls consider using a small cookie scoop first then roll to smooth.
- Add the Coating:
- Pour coconut flakes into a shallow bowl and roll each ball to coat completely. Press gently to help the coconut adhere to all surfaces. For a toasted coconut variation lightly toast the coconut before using for extra flavor.
- Chill to Perfection:
- Arrange coated balls on a parchment lined tray without touching and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This firms them up and allows the flavors to meld together becoming even more delicious.
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Orange juice concentrate is the star ingredient here. My grandmother always said the secret was using the concentrate straight without diluting to create that intense sunny flavor that makes these treats so special.
Storage Solutions
These Orange Blossom Delight Balls should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to two weeks. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. The flavor actually improves after a day or two as the orange permeates through all ingredients.
Make It Your Own
While traditional recipes call for walnuts or pecans you can experiment with different nuts based on your preference. Macadamias create a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with the coconut while pistachios add a lovely color contrast and slightly different flavor profile. For a nutfree version substitute graham cracker crumbs for the nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile treats can be presented in several ways. Arrange them on a tiered dessert stand for elegant gatherings place them in mini cupcake liners for easy handling at parties or package them in decorative boxes tied with ribbon for homemade gifts. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea and make a refreshing ending to a heavy meal.
Orange Varieties Matter
The type of orange juice concentrate you use will influence the final flavor. For a traditional sweet option regular orange concentrate works perfectly but for a more complex flavor profile try blood orange concentrate which adds slight berry notes. If available Seville orange concentrate provides a more intensely citrus experience with slightly bitter undertones that balance the sweetness beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What are the key ingredients in Orange Blossom Delight Balls?
The key ingredients include crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, orange juice concentrate, vanilla extract, finely chopped nuts, butter, and sweetened coconut flakes.
- → Can you make these with a gluten-free option?
Yes, by using certified gluten-free vanilla wafers and replacing regular flour in homemade wafers with gluten-free all-purpose flour, you can enjoy a gluten-free version.
- → How long should the balls be refrigerated?
Refrigerate the formed balls until they become firm, typically for about an hour or so.
- → Can the vanilla wafers be homemade?
Yes, you can make homemade wafers by following the given instructions using flour, butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
- → What size should the balls be formed into?
The mixture should be shaped into 1-inch balls for even portions.