Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion
There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen, especially when they’re Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies. These little gems are not only adorable in their powdery white glory but are also bursting with a flavor that dances on your palate. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture provides an indulgent experience, making every bite feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight snack or looking to impress at your next gathering, these cookies are perfect for both casual and celebratory moments. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let’s make some memories together in the kitchen!
What Is Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies?
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are delightful treats that often evoke memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Originating from various traditions of melting sweet confections and nutty delights, these cookies have a rich, buttery flavor, enhanced by the creaminess of sweetened condensed milk. The cookies are typically rolled in powdered sugar after baking, giving them that charming snowball appearance that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
But what’s truly wonderful about these cookies is their versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re using a conventional oven or perhaps considering an air fryer for a quicker bake, the end result remains decadent and satisfying. Ideally served during the holidays or any cheerful occasion, these cookies bring a sense of warmth and joy that can make even the coldest winter day feel cozy. Fun fact: you can customize these cookies with nuts or chocolate chips, making them truly your own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies will quickly become a favorite in your household.
- Ease of preparation: This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal skills, which makes it perfect for beginner bakers who want to impress family and friends without stress.
- Flavor complexity: The combination of sweetened condensed milk and vanilla creates a delightful depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. They are sweet yet balanced, thanks to the nutty or chocolatey add-ins.
- Family-friendly or kid-approved: With their soft texture and sweet taste, these cookies are beloved by both kids and adults, making them a hit at any gathering or family movie night.
- Budget-friendly or ingredient flexibility: The core ingredients are simple and inexpensive, and you can easily modify the recipe to accommodate what you have on hand.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
Making Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies is a breeze. In just about 30 minutes, you can have these delicious treats ready for your family to enjoy. With only a few simple tools – like a mixing bowl, baking sheet, and an oven – the process is practically foolproof. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and follow these steps for a fun, memorable baking experience!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter: This creates a rich, creamy texture that is essential for melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk: Adds moisture and sweetness, making the cookies deliciously soft.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our dough, providing structure and stability.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cookie flavor with a delightful aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness, making each bite more flavorful.
- Powdered sugar for rolling: Gives the cookies their signature "snowball" appearance.
Directions
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Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). The right temperature ensures that your cookies bake evenly and become golden brown.
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Cream the butter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2 minutes and fill your kitchen with a warm buttery aroma.
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Add vanilla extract: Mix in the vanilla extract and blend well. The fragrance will be inviting; it’s a hint of what’s to come!
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Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
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Shape the cookies: With your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave a little space between each ball, as they will spread slightly while baking.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn lightly golden. Your kitchen will be filled with the warm scent of vanilla and butter.
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Cool and coat: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar until fully coated. Enjoy the soft texture mingled with the sweetness!
What to Serve With Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies can serve as a delightful dessert or snack, perfectly pairing with a variety of beverages. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa, where the rich chocolate complements the melt-in-your-mouth texture. Alternatively, serve them alongside a warm chai latte, where the spices elevate each cookie’s flavor profile while balancing sweetness.
For a refreshing contrast, consider serving these cookies with a chilled glass of milk or a refreshing iced coffee. The cold drinks can balance the sweetness beautifully, ensuring that every bite is just as enjoyable as the last. You could even include a platter at your next gathering with assorted fruits or nuts to provide different textures that enhance the cookie’s overall experience.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cookies
Achieving the perfect Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies can be easy with a few helpful tips!
- Ingredient swaps or upgrades: Feel free to swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a different flavor profile. Adding chopped almonds or walnuts can add extra texture.
- Spice adjustments: For a seasonal twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Equipment advice: Always use parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet; it also ensures easy cleanup!
- Storage tips: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, staying fresh and chewy.
- Mistakes to avoid: Overbaking is the most common mistake; keep an eye on the edges, and remember they will harden slightly as they cool.
Optional Section: Variations & Add-Ins
Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun variations to consider for your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies:
- Cocoa powder: Add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder to make chocolate snowball cookies! Roll them in chocolate sprinkles instead of powdered sugar for an extra indulgent twist.
- Candy cane bits: Around the holidays, mix in crushed candy canes for a refreshing peppermint flavor, perfect for festive gatherings.
- Dried fruit: Small bits of dried cranberries or apricots can provide a chewy texture and tartness that balances the sweetness nicely.
Kid-Friendly Version
To make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies even more appealing to kids, consider adjusting flavors or textures. For a brighter treat, colors can be added with sprinkles or colored sugar. Switching in mini chocolate chips can add a sweet surprise in every bite, making them even more enticing.
Engaging kids in the cookie-making process can be a delightful family activity, from rolling the dough to coating it in powdered sugar. Encouraging their creativity can turn this treat into a fun project, allowing them to create their own personalized snowball cookies!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These delightful cookies can be stored easily for future enjoyment. Place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to maintain their texture and prevent any sticking. They are best enjoyed fresh, but they can last for about a week in the refrigerator. If storing them at room temperature, ensure you keep them in a cool area away from direct sunlight.
Reheating cookies can help restore their fresh-baked taste. For best results, reheat them in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for about 5 minutes until warm. Alternatively, you can use the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a quick fix, although be careful not to overdo it, as this can make them tough. If properly wrapped, you can even freeze these cookies for up to three months, allowing you to indulge your sweet cravings whenever you want!
FAQs
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Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just roll into balls and bake when you’re ready to enjoy. -
Can I substitute the sweetened condensed milk?
While sweetened condensed milk adds a unique flavor, you can use evaporated milk with an added sugar component, but the consistency and sweetness will vary. -
Are there gluten-free options?
Absolutely! You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make gluten-free Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies. -
How long do these cookies need to cool?
Allow them to cool for about 5-10 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. They will be easier to handle once they have set slightly. -
Can I adjust the sweetness?
If you prefer less sweetness, simply reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly, keeping in mind it may affect the cookie’s texture.
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Their easy preparation and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a perfect dessert for families. Plus, their customizable nature allows for endless possibilities to cater to your taste preferences. So why not whip up a batch tonight to see what all the fuss is about? Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out!
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sweetened condensed milk together until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt, then gradually combine with the butter mixture.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar.
