Name: Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

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Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are everything I adore in a homemade treat: a melt-in-your-mouth texture, a pretty powdered sugar coating, and a flavor that reminds you the holidays can be celebrated any time of year. These cookies are buttery yet light, with a hint of nuttiness and the sweet, creamy richness you only get from condensed milk. I just love how effortless this recipe is—you’ll be rolling “snowballs” in under half an hour, and after your first bite, you’ll see why they get devoured at every gathering. If you’re looking for a new favorite cookie to add to your baking repertoire, this is absolutely it.

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the beauty of simple ingredients! Each one in these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies plays a starring role, whether it’s bringing richness, helping the dough hold its shape, or creating that signature snowy finish. Don’t skip any, and feel free to make little swaps if you’d like—these cookies are wonderfully forgiving!

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): This is where the cookies get their rich flavor and soft, tender crumb; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Sweetened condensed milk (1/4 cup): The secret to the cookies’ creamy sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture; even a little goes a long way.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the aroma and flavor, making each bite taste like a warm hug.
All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Provides structure so the cookies keep their delightful ball shape.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential to balance the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors.
Finely chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup): Add a subtle crunch and a lovely, toasty note—feel free to sub with mini chocolate chips for a nut-free version!
Powdered sugar (1/2 cup, for rolling): The magic ingredient that gives these cookies their signature snowy look and a gentle sweetness on the outside.

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sweetened Condensed Milk

Start off strong by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper—no sticking drama here! In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk. Cream these together until the mixture is light and fluffy (use a hand mixer if you have one, but a sturdy wooden spoon works in a pinch). This sets the creamy foundation for your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies.

Step 2: Add the Vanilla

Mix in the vanilla extract, making sure it’s fully incorporated. This little splash of liquid gold infuses your dough with a warmth that perfectly complements the rich buttery base. It’s a background note you’ll taste in every bite.

Step 3: Stir in Dry Ingredients

Gently add the all-purpose flour and salt to your bowl, mixing just until a soft dough forms. It’s important not to overwork the dough—stop as soon as you see everything combined. The dough will be a little tacky but should hold together easily when pressed.

Step 4: Fold in Nuts

Fold in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans. These add crunch and a wonderful nutty complexity to each cookie. If you’re going nut-free, toss in some mini chocolate chips instead for a fun twist!

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it gently between your hands into a 1-inch ball. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between them—these cookies won’t spread much, but they do puff up ever so slightly.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the bottoms are just turning golden. You want the tops to stay pale—that’s when they’re at their most tender. Don’t be tempted to overbake; these beauties finish cooking as they cool.

Step 7: Roll in Powdered Sugar

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes—just enough so you can handle them. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar. This first coating melts in ever so slightly, giving a lovely sheen. Line them up on a wire rack to cool completely, then roll once more in powdered sugar for that perfect “snowball” look.

How to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Garnishes

Sometimes simple is best—a generous roll in powdered sugar is all these cookies really need for a gorgeous finish. But if you’re feeling playful, you can drizzle a touch of melted chocolate, sprinkle them with colored sugar, or even nestle a few edible gold sparkles on top. No matter what, they’ll look like little gems on the dessert table!

Side Dishes

Since Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are pretty rich and buttery, I love pairing them with something bright and sippable—think a pot of hot tea, rich coffee, or cocoa. For holiday brunch or an afternoon party, fresh fruit or a citrus sorbet on the side make the whole experience even more special.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your snowball cookies high on a pretty cake stand, dust the plate with more powdered sugar for a winter wonderland vibe, or wrap them in cellophane bags tied with festive ribbon to give as homemade gifts. You could even stack a few cookies in a mason jar with a handwritten tag—they’re perfect for spreading cheer!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll taste just as dreamy for up to a week, making them perfect for make-ahead treats or easy holiday entertaining.

Freezing

To freeze, simply layer the cooled cookies (with a sheet of wax or parchment paper between each layer) in an airtight freezer-safe container. They’ll keep their texture for several months. For the best “snowball” effect, give them a quick dusting of fresh powdered sugar after thawing.

Reheating

You don’t need to reheat these cookies, but if you love the idea of warm Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, just pop them in a 275°F (135°C) oven for about 3 minutes. They’ll be soft as clouds again; let them cool slightly before rolling in extra powdered sugar.

FAQs

Can I make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies without nuts?

Absolutely! If you need a nut-free version, substitute the chopped nuts with mini chocolate chips or even dried fruit bits. The cookies will keep their classic texture and taste just as delicious—perfect for sharing with friends who have allergies.

Why do I roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?

The first roll, while they’re still warm, lets the sugar melt in and coat the cookies so it sticks well. The second roll once cooled gives them that iconic snowy finish and an extra pop of sweetness with every bite.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Keep a close eye! The bottoms should be a light golden brown, but the tops need to stay pale—this ensures a soft, tender cookie. If you overbake, they might get dry and crumbly.

Can I freeze the dough instead of baked cookies?

Yes, you can! Simply roll the dough into balls, arrange them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 2 minutes to the baking time.

Do Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies work with gluten-free flour?

They do! Use your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free all-purpose blend. The cookies might be a touch more delicate, but the taste will still be spot on!

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for a sweet, quick-bake treat that’s as delightful to eat as it is to share, these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are the answer. I can’t wait for you to try them—mix up a batch and get ready to fall in love with their snowy charm!

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 29 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for the holiday season. With a buttery, nutty flavor and a snowy coating of powdered sugar, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream butter and milk: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. Fold in the chopped nuts.
Form dough balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
Coat in sugar: Let cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. Let them cool completely and roll again in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.