Description
Margarita Balls are a delightful no-bake treat inspired by the classic cocktail. These bite-sized dessert balls combine cream-filled vanilla sandwich cookies with almond flour, white chocolate, lime zest, orange marmalade, and a splash of tequila, then are coated in a sweet and tangy lime-flavored gelatin sugar mixture for a fun and festive flavor explosion perfect for parties or as a refreshing snack.
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.] pkg.), melted
- 1/4 cup orange marmalade
- 2 tsp. grated lime zest plus 1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
- Tequila (quantity not specified, estimated 2 tbsp)
Gelatin Sugar Coating
- 2 Tbsp., plus 1 1/2 tsp. lime-flavored gelatin (such as Jell-O) (from 1 [3-oz.] pkg.), divided
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp. table salt
Instructions
- Crush the cookies: Process the cream-filled vanilla sandwich cookies in a food processor until finely ground, approximately 30 seconds. Transfer the cookie crumbs to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
- Mix the dough: Add the almond flour and melted white chocolate chips to the cookie crumbs. Beat on low speed until just combined, about 1 minute, to form the dough base.
- Add juice and gelatin: Incorporate the tequila, orange marmalade, grated lime zest, fresh lime juice, and 2 tablespoons of the lime-flavored gelatin into the mixer. Continue beating on low speed until the mixture is fully incorporated and resembles a soft, pliable dough, about 1 minute.
- Shape the margarita balls: Divide the dough into 36 portions (roughly 1 heaping tablespoon each). Roll each portion between your hands until smooth and round. Arrange the balls on a parchment paper-lined large rimmed baking sheet. Refrigerate uncovered for about 10 minutes until slightly chilled.
- 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.
- Roll the balls in the lime sugar coating: Working in four batches, gently toss the chilled margarita balls in the lime gelatin sugar mixture until fully coated. Place them on a serving platter.
- Serve or store: Serve the margarita balls immediately for best flavor, or store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to eat.
Notes
- Tequila amount is approximated as it was not specified; 2 tablespoons is a suggested starting amount.
- Use lime-flavored gelatin for the coating to give a subtle tang and visual appeal.
- These balls are best eaten chilled and within a few days of preparation.
- Ensure the white chocolate chips are melted smoothly for proper dough consistency.
- Work carefully when rolling the balls in sugar coating to avoid breaking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American