Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe

If you have a soft spot for melt-in-your-mouth treats that bring a nostalgic smile with every bite, the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe is an absolute winner you need to try. These delicate little cookies boast a tender, buttery crumb and are generously dusted with confectioners’ sugar, creating a delightful snowy appearance that’s as charming as their flavor. Combining simple pantry staples with the magic of sweetened condensed milk, this recipe turns everyday ingredients into an irresistible sweet treat that will quickly become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s truly wonderful about the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe is how few and straightforward the ingredients are. Each one plays a vital role, from lending moisture and richness to creating that signature soft texture and light, snowy finish.

• 1 cup butter, softened: Provides a creamy, tender base that gives the cookies their rich, buttery flavor.
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds moist sweetness and a slight chewiness, making the snowballs uniquely luscious.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure that holds everything together, ensuring a soft yet firm cookie.
• 3 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cookies rise gently, keeping them airy without losing their signature crumble.
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar: For the final dusting, creating that beautiful snow-like coating that makes these cookies truly special.

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Begin by beating the softened butter until it becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 minutes. This step is essential because it aerates the butter, helping to give the snowballs their tender texture.

Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat for 2 minutes until everything is fully combined. This ingredient is what lends these snowballs a moist richness that sets them apart from ordinary cookies. If you want, you can stir in up to 2 teaspoons of your favorite flavor extract here, like vanilla or almond, for a fun twist.

Step 3: Scrape and Mix

Make sure to scrape down the sides of your mixing bowl to incorporate all the buttery goodness, then beat the mixture for another 1 to 2 minutes to ensure it’s perfectly smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, add the all-purpose flour and baking powder to your buttery milk mixture. Beat gently until the dry ingredients are just incorporated. Avoid over-mixing here to keep the texture tender. If you like, this is the perfect moment to fold in up to 1 cup of mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or festive candies.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion the dough into evenly sized mounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This ensures your snowballs have room to bake evenly and puff up slightly without sticking together.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C) and bake the cookies for about 12 minutes. The low temperature keeps them from browning too much and preserves their delicate crumb.

Step 7: Cool on the Pan

When the baking time is up, remove the pan from the oven and let the cookies cool right there for 5 minutes. This brief rest allows them to firm up just enough to handle without breaking.

Step 8: Transfer and Dust

Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. While still warm, sift a generous coating of confectioners’ sugar over the tops to create that classic snowball appearance – it’s this final step that truly makes the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe shine.

How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling extra confectioners’ sugar just before serving adds a fresh, wintry touch. For a pop of color and texture, try garnishing with finely chopped pistachios or a dusting of cocoa powder to complement the sweetness with a hint of earthiness.

Side Dishes

These snowballs pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or even a rich glass of milk. Their soft texture and gentle sweetness contrast nicely with the warmth and bitterness of beverages, making snack time feel cozy and inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress friends and family by serving these cookies in a festive tin, wrapped individually with a ribbon, or arranged on a platter nestled in fresh evergreen sprigs for holiday gatherings. They also make adorable, edible gifts that everyone will appreciate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, place leftover Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and tender for up to 5 days, perfect for a few days of sweet indulgence.

Freezing

You can freeze these delightful snowballs either before or after baking. For unbaked dough, shape the balls and freeze them on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For baked cookies, layer them between parchment paper in a freezer container. They keep well for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To revive the softness right before serving, warm the cookies gently in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This refreshes their melt-in-your-mouth quality like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for the rich flavor and texture it imparts, but in a pinch, margarine can be used. Just be aware the flavor and crumb may be slightly different.

Is it possible to make these snowballs gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it includes xanthan gum or another binder for structure. The cookies might be a bit more delicate but still delicious.

Can I add flavors like vanilla or almond extract?

Yes, adding up to 2 teaspoons of your favorite extract during the sweetened condensed milk step can introduce wonderful variations. Vanilla and almond are classics that pair beautifully.

What’s the best way to prevent snowballs from sticking together?

Keeping about 2 inches between each cookie on the baking sheet and allowing them to cool completely before storing helps prevent sticking. Also, a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar between stacked layers works wonders.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The snowballs will still look pale but should feel set and slightly firm to the touch after 12 minutes at 320°F. Avoid overbaking to maintain their tender texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and charming about making and sharing the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe. These tender, buttery cookies dusted with snowy sugar are the perfect little bites to brighten any afternoon or festive celebration. I promise once you try them, they’ll become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire that you’ll want to revisit again and again.

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