If you’ve ever wanted a cookie that brings the perfect combination of buttery richness, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, and a touch of nostalgic holiday magic, then Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are exactly what you need. These little delights boast a creamy sweetness from sweetened condensed milk, making them irresistibly soft and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or just craving a warm, comforting treat, these cookies give you that cozy feeling in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Buttery Goodness: These cookies have a rich, buttery base that melts gently on your tongue, creating a luxurious texture.
- Simple Ingredients: Using everyday pantry staples like sweetened condensed milk keeps baking straightforward and enjoyable.
- Holiday Favorite: Their snowball-like appearance makes them perfect for festive celebrations or gifting.
- Soft and Tender: Thanks to the sweetened condensed milk, these cookies stay soft longer than traditional shortbread.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with nuts, spices, or coatings to suit your tastes and occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each carefully chosen to build the ideal flavor, texture, and appearance. These pantry-friendly items ensure that the baking process is as stress-free as the cookies are delicious.
- Butter: Provides the rich, creamy base and keeps the cookies tender—use unsalted for better control of flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, helping to create that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the cookie, yielding that classic crumbly yet sturdy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, inviting note.
- Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting, giving the snowball effect and a delightful initial sweetness.
- Chopped Nuts (optional): Adds crunch and contrast – walnuts or pecans work beautifully here.
Variations for Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, leaving plenty of room to make it your own. Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or craving a different flavor twist, customizing your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies is both fun and simple.
- Nut-Free Version: Skip the nuts entirely or swap them with toasted coconut flakes for a crunchy alternative.
- Chocolate-Dusted: Instead of powdered sugar, dust your cookies lightly with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate finish.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, seasonal touch.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to keep everyone happy without losing texture.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough to brighten the flavor and add a fresh twist.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sweetened Condensed Milk
Start by beating softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to mix until fully combined and fluffy—this is the base that ensures your cookies will stay rich and tender.
Step 2: Incorporate Vanilla and Dry Ingredients
Add vanilla extract for that fragrant warmth. Then, slowly mix in the all-purpose flour (and chopped nuts, if using) until the dough comes together without being dry or crumbly.
Step 3: Shape the Dough into Snowballs
Using your hands or a tablespoon, scoop equal portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls about one inch in diameter, shaping each with care to keep them uniform.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain tender.
Step 5: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once out of the oven and slightly cooled, roll or sprinkle the cookies generously with powdered sugar to achieve that classic snowball look and an extra kiss of sweetness.
Pro Tips for Making Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is soft to achieve a smooth, creamy dough that mixes evenly.
- Don’t Overbake: Watch the cookies closely towards the end of baking to keep them tender, as overbaking will make them dry.
- Even Sizes: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to make uniform cookies that bake evenly.
- Cool Before Sugaring: Let cookies cool slightly before dusting powdered sugar to avoid melting it away.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.
How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, dust with additional powdered sugar just before serving to revive that snowball appearance. You can also sprinkle finely chopped nuts or edible glitter to impress guests visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them a cozy afternoon treat. During holiday seasons, consider serving with hot chocolate or eggnog for that ultimate festive combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a tiered dessert stand or in decorative holiday tins for gifting. You can also sandwich a small dollop of flavored jam or dulce de leche between two cookies for an elevated twist that’s sure to wow everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking or crumbling.
Freezing
To save cookies for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw perfectly without compromising texture.
Reheating
Warm cookies briefly in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C for 5 minutes) or microwave for a few seconds to restore their soft tenderness and fresh-baked aroma.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened condensed milk instead of regular milk in other cookie recipes?
Yes! Sweetened condensed milk adds moisture and sweetness, but remember to reduce other sugar components to maintain balance.
Are Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies gluten-free?
Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but you can easily substitute gluten-free flour blends to make them safe for gluten intolerance.
What kind of nuts work best in these cookies?
Walnuts and pecans are classic choices due to their mild flavor and pleasant crunch, but almonds or macadamias also work beautifully.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make a vegan version, use a plant-based butter substitute and a vegan condensed milk alternative, though texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure easy removal and prevent burning on the bottom.
Final Thoughts
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies promise not only a delightful taste but also an easy, enjoyable baking experience that will have you reaching for the recipe again and again. Whether it’s for a holiday celebration, a special gift, or simply to satisfy your cookie cravings, this recipe will fill your kitchen with warmth and sweetness every time. Give them a try—you’re going to fall in love with these tender, buttery snowballs just like I did.