Looking for a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that’s perfect for the holidays or anytime you crave a sweet treat? These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are the answer!
These cookies are soft, rich, and coated in powdered sugar, giving them a classic snowball-like appearance. The sweetened condensed milk adds extra moisture and a subtle caramelized sweetness, making them even more irresistible than traditional snowball cookies.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday cookie exchange, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these easy-to-make, no-fail cookies will quickly become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Soft & Buttery – The condensed milk gives them a creamy, rich texture.
✔ Only 6 Ingredients – Simple pantry staples make these cookies easy to whip up.
✔ No Eggs Needed – Perfect for those with egg allergies.
✔ Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – Light, crumbly, and deliciously sweet.
✔ Great for Holidays – A must-have for Christmas, weddings, and special occasions.
Ingredients for Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup finely chopped nuts (optional – pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ tsp salt (if using unsalted butter)
- ½ tsp almond extract (for a nutty twist)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (for a sweet variation)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (for a tropical touch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add flour and powdered sugar, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- If using nuts or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough.
Step 2: Chilling the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Step 3: Shaping the Cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Baking
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
Step 5: Rolling in Powdered Sugar
- While the cookies are still slightly warm, roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Let them cool completely, then roll them in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.
Tips for the Best Snowball Cookies
✅ Use Softened Butter – Helps create a smooth, creamy dough.
✅ Chill the Dough – Prevents spreading and keeps the cookies round.
✅ Roll Twice in Powdered Sugar – This ensures a thick, beautiful coating.
✅ Don’t Overbake – They should be lightly golden on the bottom but still soft.
✅ Use Finely Chopped Nuts – Larger pieces may cause cracks in the cookies.
Variations of the Recipe
🥥 Coconut Snowballs – Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the dough.
🍫 Chocolate Chip Snowballs – Fold in mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
🌰 Nutty Snowballs – Use toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra crunch.
🎄 Festive Snowballs – Add red & green sprinkles for a holiday touch.
Serving Suggestions
🍵 With Tea or Coffee – A perfect afternoon treat!
🍦 With Ice Cream – Serve warm cookies with vanilla ice cream.
🎁 As a Gift – Package them in festive tins for holiday gifts.
How to Store and Keep Fresh
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Health Benefits of Snowball Cookies
🥛 Condensed Milk Adds Calcium – A small boost for strong bones.
🌰 Nuts Add Healthy Fats – If using, they provide protein and good fats.
🧈 No Eggs – A good option for those with egg allergies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Skipping the Chilling Step – This helps the cookies hold their shape.
❌ Overmixing the Dough – Can lead to tough cookies.
❌ Not Rolling in Powdered Sugar Twice – This ensures a snowy, sweet finish.
❌ Overbaking – They should be lightly golden but still soft inside.
Conclusion
These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a simple, delicious, and classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a buttery texture, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness, and just the right amount of crunch, they’ll quickly become a family favorite.
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how you like it!
FAQs
1. Can I make these cookies without nuts?
Yes! Just leave them out and follow the same recipe.
2. Why do my cookies flatten instead of staying round?
Your butter may be too soft, or the dough wasn’t chilled long enough.
3. Can I use sweetened coconut instead of nuts?
Absolutely! It adds a nice chewy texture.
4. How do I make them extra soft?
Bake just until the bottoms are golden and don’t overmix the dough.
5. Can I freeze the dough instead of the baked cookies?
Yes! Roll the dough into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.