If you have been searching for a delightfully simple yet irresistibly tasty treat to brighten your day, look no further than this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe. These delicate cookies melt in your mouth with a perfect balance of buttery softness and a subtle sweetness that comes from the sweetened condensed milk. The powdery sugar coating adds a lovely snowy finish for a charming presentation that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something to accompany your afternoon tea or planning a festive celebration, these snowballs are an absolute winner and remarkably easy to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe comes together beautifully with a handful of simple, classic ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the tender crumb, subtle sweetness, and that charming snowy coating that defines these cookies.
- Butter (1 cup, softened): Brings richness and moisture, creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1/2 cup): Adds creamy sweetness and helps bind the dough perfectly.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation that gives the cookies structure without weighing them down.
- Baking powder (3 teaspoons): Ensures a light, fluffy rise for an airy bite every time.
- Confectioner’s sugar (1/2 cup): Used for dusting, giving the cookies their signature ‘snowball’ finish and extra touch of sweetness.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter
Start by placing the softened butter in a mixing bowl. Beat it on medium speed for about three minutes until it becomes light and creamy. This step is crucial since properly creamed butter traps air that makes your cookies wonderfully fluffy and soft.
Step 2: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Next, pour in the sweetened condensed milk and beat it into the creamed butter for two minutes. This blend introduces a silky sweetness that enriches every bite. If you feel adventurous, this is the moment to fold in a teaspoon or two of vanilla or almond extract for an added flavor boost, but keep it under two teaspoons to maintain balance.
Step 3: Scrape and Beat
Scrape the sides of the bowl using a spatula to ensure no buttery goodness is wasted. Then, beat the mixture again for another minute or two to keep it perfectly combined and smooth.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Add-ins
Sift together the flour and baking powder, then gradually mix them into your wet ingredients. This slow addition prevents lumps and keeps the dough light. Feeling creative? Now’s your chance to stir in up to one cup of mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or colorful chocolate candies for a fun twist!
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into mounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave at least two inches between each mound to allow space for spreading without them sticking together.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies in a preheated oven at 320 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should be slightly golden on the bottom but maintain a soft, delicate appearance on top.
Step 7: Cool Slightly
Once out of the oven, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for about five minutes. This resting period lets them firm up just enough so they don’t break when transferring.
Step 8: Dust with Confectioner’s Sugar and Cool
Carefully move the cookies to a wire cooling rack. Using a sifter, liberally dust the snowballs with confectioner’s sugar to give them that beautiful, snowy look. Allow the cookies to completely cool before storing or serving to retain their texture and flavor.
How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe
Garnishes
Snowballs are delightful on their own, but you can elevate their charm with a sprinkling of finely grated lemon or orange zest on top of the powdered sugar. A small edible flower petal or a delicate drizzle of melted white chocolate adds a touch of elegance for special occasions.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, cutting through the rich sweetness with their buttery texture. For a playful dessert spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a tangy fruit compote which balances the mellow flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Create an inviting gift plate by stacking these snowballs in a decorative jar layered with parchment paper or tissue. Tie with a ribbon and maybe add a personalized note for a thoughtful homemade gift. For parties, arrange them on a festive platter sprinkled with edible glitter or coconut flakes to mimic snow for a whimsical winter mood.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, place your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and tender for up to five days, making them perfect to bake in advance for events or even to satisfy a sweet tooth throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep these snowballs for longer, freezing is a great option. Arrange the baked and cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a sealed container or zip-top bag. They maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To gently revive the soft, buttery texture, warm the cookies in a low oven, about 300 degrees Fahrenheit, for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may change the consistency or melt the sugar coating too quickly.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter for this recipe?
While butter is recommended for its rich flavor and ideal texture, margarine can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that flavor and texture might differ slightly, resulting in a less creamy or rich bite.
Is it possible to make these snowballs gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend in a one-to-one ratio. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free for the best results.
Can I add flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg?
Absolutely. Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg complements the sweetness beautifully and adds a warm, aromatic twist to your snowballs.
Why is the sweetened condensed milk important in this recipe?
The sweetened condensed milk adds a creamy sweetness and moisture that keeps the cookies tender without needing extra sugar. It also binds the dough and supports the soft texture essential for the classic snowball cookie.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
These cookies bake to a light golden underside with tops that still appear soft and pale. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender rather than crisp. Twelve minutes at 320 degrees Fahrenheit is a reliable guideline, but watch closely toward the end.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to make this charming Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe, I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of biting into these soft, sweet little cookies dusted like fresh snow. They are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply treating yourself. Don’t hesitate to get creative with mix-ins and presentation—the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. Grab your ingredients, start baking, and enjoy every delightful bite!
Print
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 22 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies made with soft butter and sweetened condensed milk, lightly dusted with confectioner’s sugar. These easy-to-make treats bake up soft and perfectly sweet, ideal for festive occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
Topping
- 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar
Instructions
- Beat Butter: Add the softened butter to a mixing bowl and beat until light and creamy – about three minutes, creating a smooth base for your cookie dough.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and beat into the butter for two minutes. If desired, add up to 2 teaspoons of flavoring extract at this stage.
- Scrape and Beat: Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly, then beat again for another minute or two to ensure a uniform mixture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Incorporate the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the mixture, beating until fully combined. Now is the time to fold in optional add-ins like chocolate chips or dried cranberries, but do not exceed 1 cup.
- Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough into mounds onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, spacing each mound at least two inches apart for even baking.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C) and bake the cookies for 12 minutes, allowing them to firm up gently without over-browning.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool for five minutes on the pan to set their shape.
- Transfer and Dust: Carefully move the cookies to a wire cooling rack. Use a sifter to dust the tops liberally with confectioner’s sugar, then let the cookies cool completely before storing.
Notes
- Do not exceed 2 teaspoons of extract when adding flavor variations to maintain dough consistency.
- If including mix-ins like chocolate chips, limit to 1 cup to avoid altering the texture.
- Leaving at least two inches between cookie dough mounds ensures even baking.
- Allow cookies to cool completely after dusting with confectioner’s sugar to avoid melting the sugar coating.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
