If you’re searching for a melt-in-your-mouth treat with a perfect balance of buttery richness and delicate sweetness, the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These little balls of joy bring together the creamy texture of sweetened condensed milk, the warmth of toasted nuts, and that classic snowy powdered sugar coating to create cookies that feel like a cozy hug with every bite. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or simply your next afternoon tea, these cookies will quickly become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe plays a vital role, from lending moisture and richness to adding texture and balance. The simplicity of these ingredients is what makes the cookie both approachable for bakers of all levels and irresistibly delicious.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base that ensures the cookies melt in your mouth.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds moisture and natural sweetness, keeping these cookies tender and rich.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth of flavor, elevating the overall taste.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that gives structure to the dough without overpowering it.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for rolling): Creates that iconic “snowball” appearance and a sweet, powdery finish.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Bakeware
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. Having your oven ready ensures the cookies go in right away, maintaining their perfect texture.
Step 2: Cream the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it creates the light tenderness we love in snowball cookies. Don’t rush—take time to get that luscious, fluffy texture.
Step 3: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla
Next, pour in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully combined and silky smooth. This step introduces the moisture and sweet complexity that makes this version so special compared to traditional recipes.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to your wet mixture. Stir gently just until the dough begins to come together. Overmixing here can toughen the cookies, so handle with care for tender results.
Step 5: Fold in the Nuts
Now fold in your finely chopped walnuts or pecans. The nuts bring a lovely texture and subtle earthy flavor that complements the sweet, buttery dough perfectly. Plus, the little nutty bites make these cookies even more satisfying.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. This spacing allows the cookies room to bake evenly without merging together.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, watching for the bottoms to turn a light golden while keeping the tops pale. This gentle baking guarantees a delicate texture that holds its shape but isn’t dry.
Step 8: The Magical Powdered Sugar Coating
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, still warm, then roll each one in powdered sugar. Once they have completely cooled, give them a second roll in powdered sugar for that signature snowy look and beautiful sweetness.
How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies shine on their own, you can elevate their presentation with thoughtful garnishes. Try a light dusting of cinnamon powder mixed with extra powdered sugar to add a gentle warmth. Alternatively, a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios adds a pop of color and a unique flavor twist.
Side Dishes
Pairing snowball cookies with a cozy cup of chai tea, hot cocoa, or a rich coffee creates a comforting snack experience. Their buttery richness makes an excellent counterpoint to warm beverages, perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming gift or party display, arrange these cookies in small glass jars or decorative tins layered with parchment paper. Tie with a festive ribbon for a sweet touch. You can also serve them on a beautiful platter topped with fresh berries or edible flowers for an elegant look that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. They’ll stay tender and flavorful for up to one week, making them great for baking ahead of celebrations.
Freezing
These cookies freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When properly sealed, they can last up to three months, allowing you to enjoy snowball goodness anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
To enjoy the cookies fresh from the freezer, simply let them thaw at room temperature. If you prefer them slightly warm, pop a few in a low-heat oven (around 275°F) for 5 minutes, but be careful not to melt the powdered sugar coating.
FAQs
Can I substitute the nuts in the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts and pecans are classic, but almonds or hazelnuts work beautifully too. If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, you can simply omit the nuts without major changes to the texture.
Why use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk?
Sweetened condensed milk adds both moisture and sweetness in one ingredient, creating that rich, tender crumb unique to this recipe. Regular milk wouldn’t provide the same texture or flavor depth.
Do I have to roll the cookies twice in powdered sugar?
Yes, rolling twice creates that iconic snowy coating. Rolling when warm allows the sugar to stick well, and the second roll after cooling produces a lovely, evenly coated finish that’s visually and taste-wise delightful.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and keep the dough chilled if your kitchen is warm. Proper spacing on the baking sheet also helps cookies retain their shape.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
With a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures one-to-one substitution, you can try adapting this recipe. However, texture might vary slightly since gluten affects structure, so be sure to test and adjust as needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe that’s buttery, tender, and dusted in that perfect blanket of snow-like sugar. These cookies are as simple as they are stunning, making them perfect for everything from casual tea time to festive celebrations. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll likely find yourself reaching for them again and again. Happy baking!
Print
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully buttery and nutty, these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a perfect holiday treat. Soft and tender with a snowy powdered sugar coating, these classic American cookies combine the richness of condensed milk with chopped nuts and a subtle vanilla flavor.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Rolling
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it becomes creamy and smooth, creating a light base for the dough.
- Add Condensed Milk and Vanilla: Mix in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract; continue stirring until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until the dough forms and no dry flour remains to avoid overworking.
- Incorporate Nuts: Gently fold in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, spacing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet for proper spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes until the bottoms turn lightly golden but the tops remain pale, ensuring the perfect tender texture.
- First Sugar Coating: Remove cookies from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes, then roll them while still warm in powdered sugar to begin the snowy coating.
- Second Sugar Coating: Once the cookies have completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a beautiful snowy finish and enhanced sweetness.
Notes
- Substitute almonds or hazelnuts for walnuts or pecans, or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- These cookies freeze well, making them convenient for make-ahead holiday treats.
