Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are a classic holiday treat that combines rich, buttery flavors with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies are coated in powdered sugar for a snowy finish, making them perfect for festive gatherings or gifting. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a batch of cookies that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
What Are Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs?
These cookies are buttery, nutty, and lightly sweetened with condensed milk for a unique richness. The dough is rolled into bite-sized balls and baked to perfection before being coated in powdered sugar. They’re similar to traditional snowball cookies but with a slightly creamier texture thanks to the condensed milk.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and straightforward: Requires just a handful of pantry staples.
- Versatile: Use your favorite nuts to customize the flavor.
- Perfect for holidays: Their snowy appearance and delicate flavor make them a seasonal favorite.
- Make-ahead friendly: Store well for up to a week, so you can bake in advance.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (120 ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups (310 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (120 g) finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar (for rolling)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Add nuts: Fold in the finely chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Shaping the Cookies
- Form the snowballs: Roll tablespoons of dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart.
Baking
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden.
- Cool slightly: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
Coating in Powdered Sugar
- First coating: While the cookies are still warm, roll them gently in powdered sugar to coat.
- Final coating: Once the cookies are completely cool, roll them again in powdered sugar for a thick, snowy finish.
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Serving Suggestions
- Serve these cookies with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa.
- Include them in a holiday cookie platter alongside other festive treats like gingerbread or shortbread.
- Package them in decorative tins for a delightful edible gift.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Instructions
- To freeze unbaked dough: Roll the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time.
- To freeze baked cookies: Skip the powdered sugar coating before freezing. Once thawed, coat in powdered sugar as directed.
Recipe Variations
- Nut-free option: Omit the nuts and add an extra ¼ cup of flour to balance the dough.
- Citrus twist: Add 1 tsp of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing flavor.
- Chocolate lovers: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to a pinch to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty.
Can I substitute sweetened condensed milk?
No, as it is essential for the texture and sweetness of the cookies.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading?
Ensure the butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough briefly if your kitchen is warm.
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Their soft, nutty interior and snowy powdered sugar coating are sure to win hearts. Give this recipe a try and share these festive cookies with family and friends. Happy baking!
Print![](https://recipesbyjulia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/badr.laarabat_A_pile_of_fluffy_soft_and_airy_snowball_cookies_d_1beff602-9880-4ed8-9c55-983cfc7c61cb-150x150.webp)
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
Description
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are buttery, nutty cookies coated in powdered sugar for a melt-in-your-mouth holiday treat. These simple yet elegant cookies are perfect for festive gatherings or gifting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (120 ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups (310 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (120 g) finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Prepare for baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix the wet ingredients: Beat softened butter, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Combine dry ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Shape the dough: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Cool and coat: Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar. Once fully cooled, roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
- Make-ahead: Freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies (without sugar coating) for up to 3 months.
- Customization: Substitute your favorite nuts or add citrus zest for a unique flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 – 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cookie
- Calories: Approximately 150 per serving