Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth treat that feels like a sweet winter hug, you are absolutely going to adore this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe. These delicate cookies have a heavenly buttery texture, subtly sweetened with creamy condensed milk, and finished with a generous dusting of confectioners’ sugar that looks like a fresh snowfall on a chilly day. They’re elegantly simple yet irresistibly delicious, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a quiet moment with a cup of tea. Once you try this recipe, these snowballs will quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s fantastic about this recipe is how few ingredients it calls for, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting that signature taste and texture. From the richness of softened butter to the unique sweetness of sweetened condensed milk, together they make magic happen.

• 1 cup butter (softened): The foundation of tenderness and richness, ensuring the cookies melt just right in your mouth.
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds a creamy sweetness and moist texture that sets these snowballs apart from your usual cookie.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure, giving the cookies their delightful crumbly bite without being dry.
• 3 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly, keeping them light and airy instead of dense.
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar: Essential for coating the cookies to create that iconic, snowy finish and a touch of extra sweetness.

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Begin by beating the softened butter in a mixing bowl until it becomes light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, giving the cookies a lovely light texture that’s far from heavy or greasy.

Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat for another 2 minutes until fully combined. The condensed milk not only sweetens the dough but also infuses moisture, making the cookies tender and rich. Feel free to add up to 2 teaspoons of your favorite extract at this stage, like vanilla or almond, but don’t overdo it.

Step 3: Scrape and Mix

Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed, then beat the mixture for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This guarantees a smooth, cohesive dough that’s easy to shape.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, add the flour and baking powder to the wet mixture. Beat gently until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing here; you want the dough to stay tender. If you’d like, fold in some creative mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor—up to 1 cup is perfect.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough into evenly sized mounds and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches between each mound so they bake evenly without merging together.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C) and bake the cookies for 12 minutes. The lower temperature helps maintain their delicate texture and prevents browning, so those snowballs stay beautifully pale, just like fresh snow.

Step 7: Cool on the Pan

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This gentle cooling helps them firm up slightly and keeps them from breaking when you transfer them.

Step 8: Transfer and Dust

Carefully move the cookies to a wire rack, then dust them generously with confectioners’ sugar using a sifter. This final touch creates the signature snowy appearance and adds a hint of extra sweetness that makes these cookies truly special.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool entirely before storing them in an airtight container. This ensures they keep their perfect texture without becoming soggy.

How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic confectioners’ sugar dusting is a must, you can elevate these snowballs with a light drizzle of melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts for a delightful crunch and flavor contrast. A tiny pinch of cinnamon or cardamom in the sugar dusting also offers a cozy warmth that’s perfect for the holidays.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with hot beverages. Serve alongside a steaming cup of chai latte, rich hot chocolate, or a simple black tea. Their subtle sweetness balances the bold flavors of these drinks, making every bite and sip a comforting experience. They also work beautifully as a sweet finish to a holiday meal or after a casual afternoon snack.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gifting, arrange the snowballs in a beautiful glass jar layered with parchment paper, or wrap them individually in cellophane tied with festive ribbons. You can also sandwich a thin layer of jam or chocolate ganache between two snowballs for an elegant twist. Presentation adds joy and makes this simple cookie feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these snowballs will stay fresh and tender for about 3 to 4 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat to maintain their delicate crumb and the light dusting of confectioners’ sugar intact.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead of time, snowballs freeze beautifully. Place the baked and cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Reheating

To refresh the cookies after freezing, warm them gently in a low oven (about 275°F or 135°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps revive their soft, buttery texture and makes the sugar dusting sparkle again like newly fallen snow.

FAQs

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe?

Absolutely! While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or a pinch of cinnamon can bring exciting variations. Just fold in your chosen mix-ins after combining the dry ingredients to keep everything balanced.

Why do you bake these cookies at a lower temperature than usual?

Baking at 320°F (160°C) helps retain the delicate texture and soft appearance of the snowballs. Higher temperatures might cause browning, which takes away from their signature pale and powdery look.

Is sweetened condensed milk necessary, or can I substitute it?

The sweetened condensed milk is what gives these cookies their characteristic sweetness and moistness. Substituting it might affect the texture and flavor, so it’s best to stick with this ingredient for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth effect.

How should I store these cookies to keep their texture intact?

Store the snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat or moisture. This keeps them tender without becoming cakey or dry. Avoid stacking too many layers without parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I make these snowballs gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the structure and texture of the cookies.

Final Thoughts

Making the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe is like inviting a little bit of magic into your kitchen—simple ingredients transform into a tender, sweet treat that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day. Whether you’re enjoying them with loved ones or savoring them solo, these cookies are sure to brighten up any moment. Don’t wait too long to give this recipe a whirl—you’ll be hooked from that very first powdery bite!

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