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Margarita Balls Recipe

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4.1 from 3 reviews

Margarita Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining the flavors of creamy vanilla sandwich cookies, tangy lime, and a hint of orange marmalade, coated with a zesty lime sugar. Perfect for picnics or office parties, these bite-sized confections are easy to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 30 cream-filled vanilla sandwich cookies (such as Golden Oreos)
  • 2 cups (about 7 oz.) almond flour
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (from 1 [11-oz.] package), melted
  • 1/4 cup orange marmalade
  • 2 tsp. grated lime zest plus 1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
  • 2 Tbsp. plus 1 1/2 tsp. lime-flavored gelatin (such as Jell-O) (from 1 [3-oz.] package), divided
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp. table salt

Instructions

  1. Crush the cookies: Place the vanilla sandwich cookies in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground, about 30 seconds. Transfer the cookie crumbs into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to prepare for mixing.
  2. Mix the dough: Add the almond flour and melted white chocolate chips to the cookie crumbs. Beat on low speed just until everything is combined, approximately 1 minute, forming a consistent dough mixture.
  3. Add juice and gelatin: Incorporate the orange marmalade, grated lime zest, fresh lime juice, and 2 tablespoons of lime-flavored gelatin into the dough. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the citrus flavors and gelatin.
  4. Shape the margarita balls: Portion the dough into 36 equal pieces, about 1 heaping tablespoon each. Roll each piece between your hands until smooth and round. Place the balls on a large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate uncovered for about 10 minutes to slightly chill and firm up.
  5. Make sugar coating: In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, table salt, and the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of lime-flavored gelatin until evenly combined.
  6. Roll the balls in the lime sugar coating: Working in approximately 4 batches, gently toss the chilled margarita balls in the prepared lime sugar mixture until fully coated. Transfer the coated balls onto a serving platter.
  7. Serve or store: Serve the margarita balls immediately for best texture and flavor, or store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.

Notes

  • Use Golden Oreos for an authentic vanilla flavor that complements the lime and orange.
  • Chilling the balls before coating helps the sugar mixture adhere better for a crisp outer layer.
  • These no-bake treats are best served within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
  • You can substitute lime-flavored gelatin with plain gelatin and add extra lime zest for a similar effect.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain texture and flavor.