Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe

Looking for the perfect cookie to bring warmth to your home? Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are the answer! These cookies are a delightful combination of soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet, buttery flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can easily whip up these irresistible treats for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing them for a festive holiday gathering or simply as a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 1 cup softened butter
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. This step is essential to create the light and airy texture of the cookies.

Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

Slowly pour in the sweetened condensed milk while mixing continuously. This will help combine the ingredients into a smooth, rich dough.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and baking powder, stirring until a soft dough forms.Avoid overmixing, as it can impact the texture of the cookies.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you prepare the cookies.Place parchment paper on a baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Take small portions of the dough, roll them into small balls, and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each cookie for spreading during baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are slightly golden at the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Cool and Dust

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Once they’re cool enough to handle, transfer them to a wire rack. Lightly dust them with confectioner’s sugar for a sweet finish.

Helpful Tips

Use Room Temperature Butter

Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This ensures the butter blends easily with the other ingredients, creating a smooth dough. Softened butter helps achieve the right texture, ensuring the cookies are tender and not too dense.

Don’t Overmix the Dough

When combining the flour and baking powder, mix until just incorporated. Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies, so keep the mixing gentle. Once the dough forms, stop to avoid activating the gluten too much.

Adjust the Size of the Cookies

The size of the cookies can impact both texture and baking time. For smaller cookies, reduce the baking time slightly. For larger cookies, increase the baking time by a few minutes, checking for a light golden edge. Aim for uniform cookie sizes to ensure even baking.

Make the Dough Ahead

For a smoother process, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. Chilled dough is easier to roll into balls and may also result in slightly thicker cookies.

Garnish with More Sugar

While the recipe calls for confectioner’s sugar for dusting, feel free to add a little extra for an even sweeter finish. This additional dusting creates a beautiful contrast against the golden-brown edges of the cookies.

Variations

Nutty Snowball Cookies

Add a delightful crunch to your cookies by incorporating chopped nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds. The nuts add texture and complement the buttery sweetness of the cookies. Stir the chopped nuts into the dough before shaping the cookies, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Chocolate Dipped Snowballs

For an indulgent twist, dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate. Choose dark, milk, or white chocolate depending on your preference. Once dipped, allow the chocolate to set before serving. This addition creates a decadent layer that pairs wonderfully with the soft, buttery cookie.

Lemon Snowball Cookies

If you love citrus, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing burst of flavor. The citrus will brighten the cookies, making them perfect for spring and summer gatherings. You can also drizzle a lemon glaze over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness.

Gluten-Free Snowball Cookies

To make these cookies gluten-free, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a 1:1 substitution blend for the best results. You can also try adding a bit of almond flour for a different flavor profile while maintaining a delicate, crumbly texture.

Mini Snowball Cookies

For a fun twist, make mini snowball cookies by using smaller portions of dough. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy several cookies in one sitting.

Conservation and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Be sure to stack the cookies with a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between them to prevent sticking. Properly stored, these cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Keeping the container sealed tightly will help preserve their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

If you have leftover cookies or want to prepare ahead, freezing is an excellent option. Arrange the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1–2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.These cookies can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, and they’ll maintain their flavor and texture when reheated.

Thawing Frozen Cookies

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. The cookies will return to their original softness. If you prefer, you can warm them slightly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to freshen them up before serving.

Refreshing Stale Cookies

If the cookies have become a bit dry after a few days, you can refresh them by lightly steaming them for a few seconds or warming them in the microwave with a damp paper towel. This will help restore their softness and make them taste freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Hot Beverages

These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are ideal for enjoying with a hot drink. Serve them alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a comforting treat. The richness of the cookies pairs beautifully with the warmth of your beverage, creating a delightful combination that is perfect for cozy afternoons or after-dinner enjoyment.

Serve at Gatherings

These cookies are a great addition to any celebration or casual get-together. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and simple, yet irresistible flavor make them a hit with guests of all ages. Whether it’s a holiday party, birthday, or just a casual get-together with friends and family, these cookies will quickly disappear from the dessert table.

Add a Decorative Touch

For a fun twist, add festive decorations to the cookies. Consider drizzling the cookies with melted chocolate or topping them with sprinkles to match a holiday theme. This is a great way to personalize the cookies for various occasions such as Christmas, birthdays, or even baby showers.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

For an extra indulgence, pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The soft texture of the cookies combined with the cold creaminess of the ice cream creates a delicious contrast that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Unsweetened Condensed Milk Instead of Sweetened?

No, sweetened condensed milk is essential for this recipe as it provides both sweetness and moisture. Unsweetened condensed milk will not work, as it lacks the necessary sweetness and consistency to create the right texture for the cookies.

How Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?

Certainly, you can prepare the dough in advance. Simply wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, shape the dough into balls and bake as directed. Chilling the dough will also help with easier handling and a slightly firmer cookie texture.

Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?

To make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a 1:1 ratio for the best results. Additionally, check that all other ingredients are gluten-free, especially if you’re using store-bought items like baking powder.

How Do I Know When the Cookies Are Done Baking?

The cookies should be slightly golden around the edges when they are done baking. They may still seem soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the cookies dry rather than soft and chewy.

Can I Add Flavored Extracts to the Dough?

Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of your cookies by adding extracts like vanilla, almond, or even hazelnut. Begin with 1 teaspoon and adjust according to your preference.

Conclusion

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a simple yet irresistible treat that everyone will love. Their buttery texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness make them a standout at any gathering. With just a few ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing cookie that can be easily customized to fit any taste. Whether you choose to add nuts, drizzle with chocolate, or serve them as is, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, delicious, and versatile, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking collection!