If you’re searching for a melt-in-your-mouth treat that combines simplicity with a delightful snowy appearance, this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. Rich with buttery goodness and a touch of sweetened condensed milk, these cookies boast a tender texture with a subtle nutty crunch, all wrapped in a snowy coat of powdered sugar that makes them perfect for any festive occasion or cozy afternoon tea. Once you try these, they’ll quickly become your go-to comfort cookie, evoking warm memories and plenty of smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to whip up these irresistible cookies. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that iconic snowball look.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Gives the cookies their rich, creamy base and tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness along with a subtle milkiness that makes these cookies uniquely moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a wonderful aromatic warmth.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure to the soft dough.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brings depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans: Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty richness.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling): Creates the signature snowy coating that’s both beautiful and delicious.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepping Your Workspace and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly. Soften your butter ahead of time for easier mixing and a creamier dough.
Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sweetened Condensed Milk
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and well combined. This crucial step helps incorporate air, giving your cookies a light texture that almost melts on your tongue.
Step 3: Adding the Vanilla Extract
Mix in the vanilla extract, which will add an irresistible warmth and sweetness, perfectly complementing the rich butter and milk tones.
Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and salt, blending just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix here—you want the dough tender and delicate, not dense.
Step 5: Folding in the Nuts
Gently fold in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans, ensuring each bite has a lovely crunch without overpowering the buttery dough.
Step 6: Shaping and Baking
Roll the dough into neat 1-inch balls and space them about 1 inch apart on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, watching for lightly golden bottoms while keeping the tops pale and tender.
Step 7: The Magical Powdered Sugar Coating
Once the cookies have cooled for about 5 minutes, roll them in powdered sugar while still warm so it sticks beautifully. After they cool completely, give them a second roll to achieve that perfect, snowy finish that will make these cookies irresistible.
How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate these snowball cookies by dusting a little extra powdered sugar just before serving. For festive occasions, sprinkle a few edible glitter flakes or crushed peppermint candies on top to add sparkle and holiday cheer.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, creating a cozy snack experience. For colder seasons, serve alongside a warm mug of spiced hot chocolate or creamy eggnog to really bring out their smooth richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the cookies on a tiered tray decorated with fresh pine branches or holly for a winter wonderland feel. You can also package them in clear cellophane bags tied with a colorful ribbon, making heartfelt homemade gifts for friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their soft texture and perfect sweetness for up to one week, making them an ideal make-ahead treat.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies easily by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first to freeze, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When sealed properly, they keep well for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
For a freshly baked feel, pop frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep that tender crumb intact and prevent the powdered sugar coating from melting away prematurely.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies nut-free?
Absolutely! For a nut-free variation of the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe, simply swap out the chopped nuts for mini chocolate chips. You’ll still get that delightful bite and plenty of flavor.
Why is the dough soft and sticky?
The dough is intentionally soft because of the sweetened condensed milk and butter which give the cookies their tender texture. Chilling the dough briefly before baking helps make them easier to shape if needed.
How do I get the powdered sugar to stick perfectly?
Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they’re warm allows the sugar to adhere beautifully. Then, letting them cool completely and rolling a second time ensures that iconic snowy finish stays intact.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can experiment with different nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts depending on your taste preference. Just make sure they’re finely chopped to blend well with the dough’s delicate texture.
Are these cookies suitable for vegetarian diets?
They certainly are! All the ingredients in this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe are vegetarian-friendly, making them a sweet treat for almost any diet.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and delightful about these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe that makes them a must-bake whenever the mood for a truly cozy cookie strikes. Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and that unforgettable melt-in-your-mouth texture mean you’ll want to keep a batch ready at all times. So go ahead, try them out, and watch as they become your favorite little bites of happiness.
Print
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are tender, buttery cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Rolled in powdered sugar, these nutty treats are perfect for holidays or any time you crave a sweet, delicate dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
Finishing
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Milk: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and fluffy, creating a rich and moist base for the dough.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring gently until a soft, cohesive dough forms without overmixing.
- Incorporate Nuts: Fold in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans evenly throughout the dough to add texture and nuttiness.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet for even baking.
- Bake: Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the bottoms turn lightly golden while the tops remain pale, ensuring they stay tender inside.
- Initial Cooling: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes so they firm up slightly before handling.
- First Sugar Roll: While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to begin building their iconic snowy coating.
- Final Cooling and Sugar Coat: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then roll them again in powdered sugar for a beautiful, snowy finish that adds sweetness and visual appeal.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute the chopped nuts with mini chocolate chips to maintain texture while accommodating allergies.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and soft.
