Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

If you have a soft spot for melt-in-your-mouth treats that bring a touch of whimsy and nostalgia to your kitchen, then these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are about to become your new favorite indulgence. With their tender crumb, subtly sweet flavor, and that delicate dusting of confectioners’ sugar, these cookies feel like little bites of winter magic any time of the year. What makes them truly special is the sweetened condensed milk that lends a luscious moistness and a gentle caramel undertone, creating a texture so delightful you’ll find yourself reaching for one after another.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the reasons these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are such a staple is how wonderfully simple the ingredient list is. Each component plays a crucial part in balancing flavor, texture, and appearance, making the whole process feel as effortless as it is rewarding.

• 1 cup butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb, making every bite melt beautifully.
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel sweetness that binds everything together perfectly.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie, giving it structure and a delicate chewiness.
• 3 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly, keeping them light and airy rather than dense.
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar: Used for dusting, it finishes the cookies with a snowy, elegant touch.

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Begin by beating the softened butter in a mixing bowl until it’s light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 minutes. This step is essential because creaming air into the butter sets the stage for a tender texture and helps the cookies rise just enough to keep them soft rather than cakey.

Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

Next, gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk. Beat for about 2 minutes until it’s fully integrated. You want the mixture to be smooth and homogenous. If you’d like to experiment, this is the perfect point to add up to 2 teaspoons of your favorite flavor extract, like vanilla or almond, but keep it subtle so the sweetened condensed milk’s flavor can shine.

Step 3: Scrape and Mix

Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of your bowl with a spatula and beat the mixture again for another 1-2 minutes. This ensures everything is evenly combined and silky smooth, eliminating any lumps that might affect the texture of your cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now, slowly add the all-purpose flour and baking powder to the mixture. Beat just until everything comes together—overmixing here can make the cookies tough. If you’re feeling creative, fold in up to 1 cup of mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or festive candies for extra bursts of flavor and texture.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into evenly sized mounds and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave about 2 inches of space between each because they’ll gently spread. This step lets you create perfectly uniform cookies that bake evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Pop the cookies into a preheated oven at 320°F (160°C) and bake for 12 minutes. You’re aiming for the edges to be set but the centers still soft. This gentle baking temperature ensures they stay tender and maintain their delicate crumb.

Step 7: Cool and Dust with Sugar

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While still slightly warm, generously sift confectioners’ sugar over each cookie to create that signature snowball effect that makes these treats so charming. Let them cool completely before storing or serving.

How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

A simple dusting of confectioners’ sugar is classic and beautiful, but for extra flair, try rolling the cookies in finely chopped nuts before baking or adding a light drizzle of melted white chocolate just before serving. These little touches add color, crunch, and richness while keeping the cookie’s soft core intact.

Side Dishes

These cookies are wonderful alongside a cup of tea or coffee, providing a lightly sweet contrast that complements most warm beverages. For a celebratory touch, serve them with a bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert plate that’s both comforting and elegant.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies in a festive jar or stacked in a decorative tin with a ribbon, making them a perfect gift. Alternatively, place them on a tiered dessert stand alongside other cookies and seasonal treats to create a stunning, interactive cookie platter that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. The sugar dusting will keep their charm, and the cookies will remain soft and delightful, making them a great make-ahead option for celebrations or everyday treats.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly wrapped, they’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight to retain their perfect texture.

Reheating

To refresh their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture after freezing, simply warm the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This brief reheating will revive their delicate crumb and bring back that freshly baked feeling without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is highly recommended because it adds richness and flavor that margarine often lacks. Using margarine might affect the texture and taste, making the cookies less tender and less flavorful.

Is it necessary to use baking powder in this recipe?

Yes, baking powder provides a slight lift to the cookies, ensuring they’re light and not dense. Omitting it may result in heavier cookies that lack the desired softness and texture.

Can I add flavors like vanilla or almond extract?

Absolutely! Adding up to 2 teaspoons of extracts can enhance the flavor beautifully, but keep it mild so the star ingredient—the sweetened condensed milk—still shines through.

Are there any gluten-free alternatives for the flour?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Just be sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture, as this recipe relies on the flour’s structure.

Why do I dust the cookies with confectioners’ sugar after baking?

This dusting creates the signature “snowball” look and adds a subtle sweetness to the cookie’s exterior. It’s what transforms these cookies from simple treats into festive, elegant delights.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably charming about a batch of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, and once you make them, you’ll understand why they hold a special place in so many hearts. They are effortless to prepare, comforting to eat, and endlessly versatile to serve and share. So grab your ingredients, invite a loved one to bake along, and enjoy creating these little snow-kissed treasures that taste like happiness in every bite.

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