The holiday season is incomplete without a batch of delicious, buttery snowball cookies. These melt-in-your-mouth treats, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, are a timeless favorite. But what if we told you there’s a way to make them even more irresistible? By incorporating sweetened condensed milk, we elevate the texture, creating a richer, more tender cookie that simply dissolves on your tongue.
In this 1,500-word exclusive article, we’ll guide you through:
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The history of snowball cookies
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Why sweetened condensed milk makes them better
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A step-by-step recipe for perfect cookies
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Tips for storage and variations
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SEO-optimized FAQs
Whether you're a baking enthusiast or a holiday dessert lover, this guide will help you create the ultimate snowball cookies that will impress everyone!
The History of Snowball Cookies
Snowball cookies have a rich history, with variations appearing in different cultures:
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Russian Tea Cakes: Traditionally served with tea, these nutty, powdered sugar-coated cookies date back centuries.
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Mexican Wedding Cookies: Often made with pecans, these are popular at celebrations.
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Butterball Cookies: A Southern U.S. version with a similar melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Adding sweetened condensed milk is a modern twist that enhances moisture and sweetness, making them even more decadent.
Why Sweetened Condensed Milk Makes the Perfect Snowball Cookies
Traditional snowball cookies rely on butter and flour, but sweetened condensed milk offers unique benefits:
Extra Moisture: Prevents dryness, ensuring a tender bite.
Enhanced Sweetness: Reduces the need for excess sugar.
Smooth Texture: Helps bind ingredients for a delicate crumb.
This secret ingredient takes an already amazing cookie to the next level!
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 24-30 Cookies)
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1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
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½ cup sweetened condensed milk
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for nut-free version)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¼ tsp salt
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1 ½ cups powdered sugar (for coating)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter & Condensed Milk
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In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
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Gradually add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
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Sift in flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
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Fold in chopped nuts (if using).
4. Shape the Dough
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Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden.
5. Coat in Powdered Sugar
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Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar.
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Once fully cooled, roll them again for a double coating.
Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
🔹 Chill the Dough: If too soft, refrigerate for 30 minutes before shaping.
🔹 Finely Chop Nuts: Ensures a smooth texture.
🔹 Double Sugar Coat: For maximum sweetness and a snowy look.
🔹 Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Variations to Try
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Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half in melted chocolate for extra richness.
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Coconut Snowballs: Roll in shredded coconut before baking.
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Spiced Version: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
FAQs (SEO-Optimized)
1. Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
No, evaporated milk is unsweetened and will not provide the same texture or flavor.
2. Why are my snowball cookies crumbly?
Overbaking or too much flour can cause dryness. Ensure proper measurements and baking time.
3. Can I freeze snowball cookie dough?
Yes! Freeze shaped dough balls for up to 3 months and bake when needed.
4. Are these cookies gluten-free?
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a GF version.
5. How do I keep powdered sugar from melting?
Let cookies cool completely before the second coating and store in a cool, dry place.
Conclusion
These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a holiday must-have—soft, buttery, and irresistibly sweet. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and easy preparation, they’re perfect for gifting, parties, or cozy nights in.
Try this recipe today and make your holiday baking unforgettable! 🎄✨
