Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are soft, buttery cookies coated in a snowy layer of powdered sugar that instantly make any dessert table feel festive. These tender little treats combine rich butter, sweetened condensed milk, and simple pantry staples to create cookies that practically melt in your mouth.
If you need an easy holiday dessert that looks beautiful yet requires minimal effort, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs deliver every time. They bake quickly, store well, and always disappear fast at parties.
I first made these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs during a busy December afternoon when my kitchen already overflowed with half-finished recipes. I needed something simple but impressive. After one batch, I knew they were special. Their soft texture and sweet, creamy flavor reminded me of the powdered sugar cookies my grandmother used to make. Since then, I include them on every holiday tray because they balance richer desserts perfectly and bring that classic winter charm to the table.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 320°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat softened butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in flour and baking powder until just incorporated.
- Scoop dough into balls and place 2 inches apart on baking sheet.
- Bake for 12 minutes. Cool slightly, then dust generously with confectioners’ sugar.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Soft, Buttery Texture That Melts in Your Mouth
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs stand out because of their incredibly tender crumb. The butter creates richness, while the sweetened condensed milk adds moisture and subtle caramelized sweetness. As a result, the cookies remain soft rather than crumbly.
Unlike traditional shortbread, these snowballs feel lighter. Additionally, the baking powder gives them a gentle lift, so they never taste dense. Once baked, they cool into delicate, pillowy bites that pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
Perfect for Holidays and Gifting
These cookies look like tiny snowballs thanks to their generous dusting of confectioners' sugar. Therefore, they fit perfectly on Christmas trays, winter dessert boards, or cookie exchanges.
Moreover, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs store well, which makes them ideal for edible gifts. Pack them in decorative tins lined with parchment paper, and they stay fresh for days. Because they travel easily, they also work well for potlucks and parties.
Ingredients for Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Simple Pantry Staples
One reason Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs remain so popular is their simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients:
- Softened butter
- Sweetened condensed milk
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Confectioners' sugar
Butter provides flavor and structure. Sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and keeps the dough moist. Flour forms the base, while baking powder ensures a soft, light texture. Finally, confectioners' sugar creates the iconic snowy finish.
Optional Flavor Additions
Although the classic version tastes wonderful, you can easily customize Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs. For example:
- Add up to 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for extra warmth
- Use almond extract for a nutty undertone
- Fold in mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries
- Add finely chopped nuts for texture
Keep additions limited to about 1 cup to maintain the proper dough consistency.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Step 1: Cream the Butter
Begin by placing softened butter in a mixing bowl. Beat it for about three minutes until light and fluffy. This step creates air pockets, which help produce soft cookies.
Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk. Beat for about two minutes until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything blends evenly.
If you choose to add vanilla or almond extract, mix it in at this stage.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Add the flour and baking powder gradually. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as that can toughen the cookies.
If you plan to add mix-ins, gently fold them into the dough now.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough into evenly sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
Bake at 320°F (160°C) for about 12 minutes. The cookies should remain pale with just slight golden coloring on the bottom.
Step 5: Cool and Dust
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack.
Once slightly cooled but still warm, dust generously with confectioners' sugar. For an extra snowy look, dust them again once completely cool.
Storage Tips for Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Refrigerator Storage
Store Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week. Because of their soft texture, keeping them chilled helps preserve their structure.
Freezer Storage
You can freeze these cookies for up to three months. First, freeze them in a single layer. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about one hour. Dust lightly with additional powdered sugar before serving if needed.
Variations and Substitutions
Nut-Free Option
If you prefer a nut-free version, keep the base recipe simple or replace optional nuts with crushed graham crackers for added texture.
Chocolate Twist
Roll baked Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs in cocoa powder for a chocolate version. Alternatively, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for extra decadence.
Dairy-Free Option
To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk and substitute butter with plant-based butter or coconut oil.
Festive Coatings
For a holiday touch, roll the cookies in colored sprinkles or crushed peppermint after dusting with powdered sugar. This variation makes them especially eye-catching on a dessert table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before scooping.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Also measure flour accurately.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs double easily and freeze well.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No chilling is required, but if your kitchen is warm, 20 minutes in the fridge can help maintain shape.
Can I make them smaller?
Yes. Simply reduce baking time by 1-2 minutes for mini snowballs.
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs offer everything you want in a holiday cookie: simplicity, softness, and festive charm. With just a few pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a batch of tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that look as beautiful as they taste.
Whether you serve them at a cookie exchange, wrap them as edible gifts, or enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs always bring comfort and cheer. Once you try them, they may just become your new seasonal tradition.
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