Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs

This five-ingredient cookie recipe creates the most delightful little snowballs that are light, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet. Despite their unassuming appearance, these treats pack a wonderful buttery flavor that makes them impossible to resist.

I discovered this recipe during a Christmas when money was tight but I still wanted to bring something special to the family gathering. They disappeared faster than any fancy dessert and now they're requested at every holiday.

Ingredients

• Butter: softened at room temperature for that perfect fluffy texture that creates the cloud-like consistency these cookies are known for
• Sweetened condensed milk: the secret ingredient that gives these cookies their distinct sweetness without being overwhelming
• All-purpose flour: provides structure while maintaining a tender crumb
• Baking powder: ensures the perfect rise making them light and airy rather than dense
• Confectioner's sugar: for that classic snowy coating that makes these cookies visually festive

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cream the Butter:

Beat softened butter in a mixing bowl for a full three minutes until it becomes noticeably lighter in both color and texture. This step is crucial for incorporating air which creates the tender crumb texture. Use a stand mixer or electric hand mixer for best results at medium speed.

Add Condensed Milk:

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and beat for two full minutes until completely incorporated with the butter. The mixture will look slightly curdled at first but will come together into a smooth pale mixture. If adding any flavoring extracts like vanilla or almond this is the perfect time to do so.

Scrape and Beat Again:

Take a rubber spatula and thoroughly scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated. Then beat again for another minute or two until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy without any streaks.

Add Dry Ingredients:

Add all the flour and baking powder at once and beat just until mixed through about 30-45 seconds. The dough will be soft but should hold its shape. Overmixing will develop too much gluten making the cookies tough rather than tender.

Portion and Bake:

Using a cookie scoop for uniform sizing portion the dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets leaving two inches between each cookie. Bake in a preheated 320°F oven for exactly 12 minutes until just set but not browned. They will look slightly underdone which is perfect.

Cool and Dust:

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack. While still warm generously dust with confectioner's sugar creating that classic snowball appearance. The warm cookies will partially absorb the first coating creating a sweet shell.

The sweetened condensed milk is truly the magical ingredient in these snowballs. My grandmother taught me this recipe and always said the secret was using the full-fat version never the light variety. She would make these cookies year-round not just at Christmas claiming they were perfect with afternoon tea in any season.

Flavor Variations

These snowballs are wonderfully adaptable to different flavor profiles. For chocolate lovers fold in mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder. Citrus enthusiasts can add lemon or orange zest for a bright twist. My personal favorite is adding chopped dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive holiday combination. Just remember not to add more than one cup of mix-ins to maintain the proper cookie structure.

Storage Tips

Store these snowballs in layers separated by wax paper in an airtight container at room temperature. The confectioner's sugar coating may absorb some moisture over time so I recommend giving them a fresh dusting just before serving if they've been stored for more than a day. For freezing wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer container. Allow them to thaw completely at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These delicate snowballs pair beautifully with hot beverages. Try them alongside a mug of hot chocolate for children or with coffee for adults. During the holidays I arrange them on a tiered serving platter alternating with chocolate cookies for a stunning visual effect. Their neutral flavor profile makes them perfect for complementing more intense desserts in a holiday spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute sweetened condensed milk with other ingredients?

Sweetened condensed milk is essential to the texture and sweetness of these cookies, but evaporated milk with added sugar could work as a substitute in a pinch.

→ Can I add extra flavors or ingredients to the snowballs?

Yes! You can add up to 1 cup of extras like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for additional flavors and textures.

→ How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure that the butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough. Chilling the dough slightly before baking can also help retain their shape.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage and dust with sugar after thawing.

→ What is the best way to serve these cookies?

These cookies are perfect served with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or as part of a holiday dessert spread to share with family and friends.