Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for the snowball effect!

Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix until well combined.

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. If you're using nuts, fold them in now.

Roll the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about an inch apart.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are just lightly golden. They should still be mostly pale.

Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes. Then, while still warm, gently roll them in additional powdered sugar. For a thicker snow-like coating, let them cool completely and roll them in sugar again.

Once they've cooled, arrange your snowball cookies on a festive plate, and they're ready to serve!