Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe is one of those delightful treats that instantly brings cozy vibes to your kitchen. Imagine tender, buttery cookies rolling around in a snowy coat of powdered sugar, with a subtle sweetness from sweetened condensed milk that makes each bite melt in your mouth. Whether you're baking for the holidays, a weekend treat, or a simple joy to share with friends, these cookies are a crowd pleaser. I love how easy they come together, and I bet once you try this recipe, they'll become a staple in your cookie box too!
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What Makes This So Good
This Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe stands out because it balances simplicity with rich flavor and a texture that’s just right — soft, buttery centers that almost dissolve on your tongue, wrapped in a sweet, powdery finish. Every bite carries a cozy homemade warmth you won’t find in store-bought cookies.
- Big Flavor, Minimal Fuss: This recipe uses sweetened condensed milk to boost sweetness and moisture, cutting down on complex steps but not skipping on taste.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these snowballs, making them perfect for gifting, parties, or a weekend kitchen project.
- Simple Ingredients: With pantry staples like butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, you can whip these up anytime without a special trip to the store.
- Works Any Night: Whether it’s a chilly winter’s evening or a sunny afternoon craving, these cookies are quick to make and hard to stop eating.
Ingredient Guide
Choosing the right ingredients for your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe ensures you get that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate sweetness. Let’s walk through what each one does, so you know what to look for and how to prep them well.
- Unsalted Butter: Using softened, unsalted butter gives you control over the salt content and ensures a creamy, tender cookie base. I like to take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before starting so it blends easily.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the magic ingredient that adds moisture and subtle sweetness without adding extra sugar granules. Be sure to use the canned kind — it’s rich and thick, perfect for binding.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds a smooth sweetness while keeping the dough light. Don’t forget extra for that classic snowball coating — it’s what makes these cookies truly special.
- Vanilla Extract: Choose a good-quality pure vanilla for depth of flavor. This one subtle addition makes a big difference in aroma and taste.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure for the cookies. Measure it carefully to avoid a tough texture — spoon and level for best results.
- Chopped Nuts (optional): Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a lovely crunch that contrasts the soft dough. I like to toast mine lightly to bring out their flavor before folding them in.
Quick Reminder: Full measurements are in the recipe card below.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
Step 1 — Prep & Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper — this stops the cookies from sticking and helps them bake evenly. Next, bring your butter to room temperature so it creams easily with the powdered sugar, creating that fluffy, velvety base. Having all your ingredients measured and ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable, especially as this dough comes together quickly.
Step 2 — Cook with Confidence
Once you cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and airy, stirring in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract will give your dough a luscious shine and gorgeous aroma. Slowly add the flour in batches, folding gently to avoid overworking the dough — you want it soft and manageable, not tough. If you’re adding nuts, fold them in here. Then scoop the dough into roughly 1-tablespoon balls. They’ll bake in about 12-15 minutes, and you’ll notice they develop just a hint of golden edges while staying soft inside — that’s your cue they’re ready!
Step 3 — Finish & Serve
After baking, let the cookies cool just enough so they’re warm but not hot, then roll them in powdered sugar for the first snowy coat. Once completely cooled, give them another gentle roll for that classic, snowy appearance and extra sweetness. This double coat not only adds visual charm but keeps the cookies moist inside with a delicate, meltaway texture. Serve them up with a big smile — these cookies disappear fast!
Extra Helpful Tips
Making this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe can be even easier and more foolproof with a few tricks I’ve learned along the way. These tips will help you master the texture and flavor without stress.
- Watch for This Sign: When you cream butter and sugar, look for a pale, fluffy mixture—not gritty or oily—to ensure the best texture.
- Temperature Trick: If your kitchen is warm and the dough feels sticky, chill it for 15-20 minutes before shaping. This helps keep those perfect snowball shapes.
- Prep-Ahead Option: Dough can be made a day in advance and stored tightly wrapped in the fridge — just bring to room temperature before rolling.
- Avoid This Common Mistake: Don’t over-bake! These cookies are best slightly underdone in the middle for melt-in-your-mouth softness.
Serve & Enjoy
Easy Enhancements
Want to jazz up your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe? Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm spice twist. For a festive touch, roll some cookies in crushed peppermint candies or a dusting of cocoa powder mixed with powdered sugar. I also love folding chopped dried cherries or orange zest into the dough to give a fruity surprise inside.
Tasty Pairings
These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or creamy hot chocolate—perfect for settling in with a cozy book or catching up with friends. For a light gathering, serve alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy, irresistible dessert spread.
Quick Plating Tips
Arrange your snowball cookies on a pretty plate lined with a festive napkin or parchment paper. Sprinkle a few extra powdered sugar snowflakes or edible glitter on top for sparkle. Adding fresh mint leaves or small berries around the plate creates a colorful, inviting contrast that looks like winter magic on a platter.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Fridge Storage
You can keep your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. You'll notice the powdered sugar coating can soften slightly in the fridge, but the cookies stay tender and flavorful. For best texture, bring to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer Friendly?
Yes, these cookies freeze beautifully! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to indulge, thaw them at room temperature to avoid sogginess and maintain their soft, crumbly texture.
Reheat Like New
Reheat your cookies gently in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave them in short bursts (10 seconds at a time) to bring back that fresh-baked warmth and softness. Avoid overheating, which can dry them out. A warm snowball cookie is a little slice of happiness!
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! The nuts are optional and only add crunch. The cookies are just as delicious without them, perfect if you have allergies or prefer a smooth texture.
It adds creamy sweetness and moisture, helping the cookies stay tender and giving them a rich flavor without needing extra granulated sugar.
Make sure to let the cookies cool slightly before the first roll in powdered sugar, then give a second coating only once they are completely cool. This helps the sugar stick without melting away.
You can, but reduce or skip any added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies. Unsalted butter offers more control over flavor balance.
Final Flavor Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe as much as I do. These cookies bring a little magic to everyday moments, whether for a holiday party or quiet afternoon tea. If you loved them, don’t forget to leave a star rating and comment! And next time, try adding your favorite nuts or a hint of spice — I promise it’s a fun twist. Happy baking!
Print📖 Recipe
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are tender, buttery treats delicately coated in powdered sugar for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Enhanced with a hint of vanilla and optional chopped nuts, this classic cookie recipe is perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, blending well to combine the flavors and moisture evenly.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms without overworking it to keep cookies tender. If using, gently fold in the finely chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop out the dough by tablespoonfuls, roll each into a ball with your hands, and arrange them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are set but the cookies are not browned, preserving their delicate texture.
- Coat in Powdered Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet, then carefully roll them in powdered sugar. Once completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again to create a signature snowy coating.
Notes
- For best results, use unsalted butter to control the salt level in the cookies.
- Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, for proper creaming and texture.
- Double coating with powdered sugar once cookies are fully cool ensures a beautiful snowball appearance and prevents sugar melt.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
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