Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, combining buttery richness with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Rolled in powdered sugar for their signature “snowy” look, these cookies are a festive favorite for Christmas parties, gift baskets, or cozy winter evenings. With just a handful of ingredients, they’re as simple to make as they are delightful to eat.
What Are Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies?
These cookies are a classic variation of snowball cookies, enhanced with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk. Their delicate crumb, subtle vanilla flavor, and powdered sugar coating make them irresistible. Perfect for all ages, they bring a touch of winter magic to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Versatile: Great for holiday gatherings, gifts, or a sweet indulgence with coffee or tea.
- Delightful Texture: Buttery, tender, and just the right amount of sweetness.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make them ahead and enjoy throughout the season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- ½ tsp (2.5g) salt
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (for rolling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shaping the Cookies
- Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball. Place the dough balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Baking
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
Coating in Powdered Sugar
- Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar, ensuring a generous coating.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely, then roll them in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for a cozy treat.
- Arrange them on a decorative platter for a holiday dessert table.
- Package them in festive tins or boxes as thoughtful homemade gifts.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Instructions
- To Freeze Unbaked Dough: Roll the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
- To Freeze Baked Cookies: Freeze fully cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and re-roll in powdered sugar if needed.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough.
- Citrus Twist: Mix in 1 tsp of orange or lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or add mini chocolate chips to the dough.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to ¼ tsp to balance the flavors.
Why do I need to roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?
Rolling the cookies while warm ensures the sugar sticks, and the second coating creates an even, snowy finish.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a timeless holiday treat, loved for their simplicity and delicious flavor. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these cookies are sure to spread joy with every bite. Try them this holiday season and experience the magic for yourself!
PrintSweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
Description
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats coated in powdered sugar for a snowy, festive appearance. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting, these cookies are quick to make and utterly delightful to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- ½ tsp (2.5g) salt
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract. Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Shape: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
- Coat: While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Allow to cool completely, then roll in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving or baking.
- Optional Add-Ins: Chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or citrus zest can be added for extra flavor.
- Double Powdered Sugar: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar twice gives them their classic snowy appearance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cookies
- Calories: 140 per serving