Winter is here, and so is the season of cozy baking! There’s something magical about the holidays that makes us crave soft, sugary confections that practically melt in your mouth. These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are the perfect recipe to capture that magic. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, creating a festive dessert platter, or just looking for an excuse to fire up the oven, these snowball cookies will quickly become your go-to treat.
I’ve been baking these little bites of heaven for years, and let me tell you, they’re as easy to make as they are to eat. Imagine buttery, tender cookies with a subtle sweetness, dusted in powdered sugar for that iconic snowy finish. Sounds dreamy, right? Let’s dive into how to make them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these staples in your pantry right now.
- Versatile Add-Ins: Whether you love chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, this recipe has endless possibilities.
- Quick to Bake: These cookies come together in just about 30 minutes, from mixing to cooling.
- Festive Appeal: With their snowy powdered sugar coating, these cookies are a beautiful addition to any holiday table.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Let’s break it down step by step so you can whip up these cookies without any stress.
Step 1: Cream the Butter
Start by beating 1 cup of softened butter in a mixing bowl. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer for this step, and aim for a light and fluffy texture. This takes about 3 minutes and is crucial for giving the cookies that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Pro Tip: Make sure your butter is truly at room temperature. If it’s too cold, the cookies won’t have that perfect crumbly texture.
Step 2: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Once your butter is fluffy, gradually mix in 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Keep beating for another 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
If you’re feeling adventurous, this is the time to add a splash of flavor extract. Vanilla is a classic choice, but almond or lemon extract can give these cookies a unique twist.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 3 teaspoons of baking powder. Slowly add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies dense.
Optional Add-Ins: This is where the fun begins! Stir in up to 1 cup of mix-ins like mini chocolate chips, finely chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even festive candy bits for a holiday vibe.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough into evenly sized mounds. Roll each mound into a smooth ball using your hands, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each ball to allow for slight spreading during baking.
Baking the Perfect Snowballs
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Bake the cookies for about 12 minutes, or until the edges are set. The tops should remain pale to maintain that delicate, snowy look.
Pro Tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking, especially if your oven tends to have hot spots.
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs: The Finishing Touches
Welcome to the second part of this journey to cookie perfection! By now, your kitchen is probably filled with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs. But we’re not done just yet—these cookies are about to get their magical, snowy makeover.
Here’s how to bring these delicious treats to their full glory, plus a few tips and variations to make them even more special.
Step 6: Cool on the Pan
When the cookies come out of the oven, resist the urge to move them right away. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up slightly. This step is crucial because these cookies are so tender that handling them too soon might cause them to crumble.
Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar
While the cookies are still warm, transfer them to a wire rack. Now comes the fun part—dusting them with confectioners’ sugar! Use a sifter or fine mesh strainer to sprinkle the sugar generously over the tops of the cookies.
Pro Tip: For an extra snowy look, give the cookies a second dusting once they’re completely cooled. The sugar sticks better this way, and it makes the cookies look even more festive.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Allow the cookies to cool completely on the wire rack. This ensures they’ll hold their shape when stored and won’t melt the powdered sugar. Once they’ve cooled, these snowballs are ready to eat—or save for later!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Snowballs
- Use High-Quality Butter: Since butter is the star ingredient, its quality will significantly impact the flavor. Opt for European-style butter if you want a richer, creamier taste.
- Add a Flavor Twist: Vanilla is a crowd-pleaser, but almond or lemon extracts can give your cookies an unexpected and delightful flavor profile.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before rolling. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Make Mini Snowballs: Use a smaller cookie scoop to create bite-sized versions of these treats. These are perfect for parties or holiday cookie platters.
Optional Variations
What makes these cookies so versatile is their ability to adapt to your personal preferences. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an indulgent touch.
- Nutty Snowballs: Fold in finely chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a crunchy texture.
- Cranberry Bliss: Toss in dried cranberries for a pop of color and a tangy contrast to the sweet dough.
- Holiday Peppermint: Mix in crushed candy canes or sprinkle them on top of the powdered sugar for a festive twist.
How to Store Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
These cookies are just as delightful the next day (or even weeks later!) if stored properly:
- Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Line the container with wax paper to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs: FAQs and Final Thoughts
You’ve made it to the final stretch of our cookie adventure! By now, your kitchen is likely a winter wonderland of powdered sugar, and your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are ready to shine. In this section, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time. Then, we’ll wrap things up with a little inspiration to encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand. However, omit any additional salt in the recipe to avoid overpowering the delicate sweetness of the cookies.
2. What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?
For the most accurate results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this can pack the flour and lead to dry cookies.
3. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This could be due to the butter being too soft or the dough not being chilled. To fix this, refrigerate the dough for 15–20 minutes before rolling and baking.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure the flour blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best results.
5. How do I keep the powdered sugar from melting?
For a long-lasting snowy finish, allow the cookies to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar. You can also give them a second dusting right before serving for an extra snowy look.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe doubles beautifully. Just make sure to mix the ingredients in batches if your mixing bowl isn’t large enough to handle the extra dough.
7. What’s the best way to gift these cookies?
Pack the cookies in a festive tin or decorative box lined with parchment paper. Add a handwritten note or recipe card for a personal touch—your friends and family will love it!
Conclusion: A Snowball Success
There’s something incredibly satisfying about baking a treat that’s as simple as it is delightful. These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are a testament to the idea that a few basic ingredients can create something magical. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture, subtle sweetness, and beautiful snowy finish, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit at any holiday gathering—or just as a little treat for yourself.
Print
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Description
These delicate, buttery snowball cookies melt in your mouth and are dusted with a generous layer of powdered sugar for a festive and irresistible treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or whenever you’re craving something sweet and simple.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cream the Butter:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
2️⃣ Add Sweetened Condensed Milk:
Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, beating for 2 minutes until fully combined.
If adding flavor extract, stir it in now.
3️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients:
Scrape down the sides of the bowl and add the flour and baking powder. Mix until just incorporated.
If using mix-ins, gently fold them in now.
4️⃣ Shape the Cookies:
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough into evenly sized mounds.
Roll each mound into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing about 2 inches apart.
5️⃣ Bake the Cookies:
Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C). Bake the cookies for 12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the tops remain pale.
6️⃣ Cool on the Pan:
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes.
7️⃣ Dust with Sugar:
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack. Use a sifter to generously dust them with confectioners’ sugar while still slightly warm.
8️⃣ Cool Completely:
Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Notes
- Light and Fluffy Butter: Beating the butter properly ensures the cookies are soft and tender.
- Avoid Overbaking: The cookies should remain pale on top for the perfect texture.
- Extra Sweetness: Roll the cookies in confectioners’ sugar a second time after they’ve completely cooled for a thicker coating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
