Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies – Best Recipe Ever

Looking for a festive, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion? These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are just what you need. Soft, buttery, and delicately coated in powdered sugar, these cookies are made without eggs and use pantry-friendly ingredients. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want a nostalgic treat, these classic snowball cookies with a twist are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

These cookies stand out for their rich buttery flavor, irresistible nutty crunch, and beautiful powdered sugar coating that gives them their signature “snowball” appearance. Unlike traditional recipes, this version uses sweetened condensed milk to add extra moisture and subtle caramel-like sweetness, making them even more tender and flavorful.

Perfect for gifting, cookie swaps, or afternoon tea, they’re a favorite among holiday cookies for their texture, simplicity, and charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Snowball Cookies

• Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich, soft base and helps the cookies hold their shape
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds moisture, sweetness, and a chewy texture without the need for eggs
• Powdered Sugar: Used inside the dough and for rolling; gives the cookies their classic snowy finish
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall aroma and depth of flavor
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and sharpens the flavor
• Finely Chopped Nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds): Add a delightful crunch and nutty richness
• Extra Powdered Sugar (for coating): Creates the snowball effect and adds a sweet finish

Ingredient Swaps for Dietary or Pantry Needs

• Nuts: Swap with sunflower seeds or omit entirely for a nut-free version
• Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free snowball cookie
• Dairy-Free Butter: Replace regular butter with vegan butter to make these cookies dairy-free (note that sweetened condensed milk alternatives may slightly alter the flavor)

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies – Step by Step

1. Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Cream the Wet Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with sweetened condensed milk and powdered sugar. Mix until light, fluffy, and fully combined. This creates the rich, buttery base of the cookies.
3. Add Flavor and Dry Ingredients
   Stir in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix until just combined — avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
4. Fold in the Nuts
   Add the finely chopped nuts of your choice and stir until evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step gives the cookies their signature crunch and nutty flavor.
5. Shape the Dough
   Scoop and roll the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake the Cookies
   Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale — this ensures a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
7. First Sugar Coating (While Warm)
   Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm. This helps the sugar cling better.
8. Final Sugar Coating (After Cooling)
   Once completely cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a thick, snowy coating. This double-roll technique gives them that classic festive look.

Expert Tips for the Best Snowball Cookies

• Don’t Overbake: The tops should remain light — check the bottoms for a light golden hue to avoid drying them out.
• Use Finely Chopped Nuts: This helps the cookies hold together better and makes the texture smoother.
• Roll Twice in Sugar: One warm roll and one after cooling ensures the coating sticks and gives the best visual result.
• Cool on the Baking Sheet: Letting the cookies sit briefly on the tray before transferring to a rack prevents crumbling.
• Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Creative Variations & Serving Ideas

• Holiday Spice Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy winter flavor
• Chocolate-Dipped Snowballs: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate for a festive touch
• Coconut Snowballs: Roll in a mix of powdered sugar and shredded coconut for a tropical variation
• Lemon-Vanilla Version: Add lemon zest to the dough for a fresh citrus note
• Make Ahead: Freeze unbaked dough balls, then bake directly from frozen — just add a few extra minutes to the baking time

These cookies pair beautifully with hot cocoa, spiced tea, or coffee, making them ideal for dessert platters, afternoon treats, or cozy winter nights.

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies for the Season

Thanks to the sweetened condensed milk, these snowball cookies offer a richer taste and texture than traditional shortbread-style cookies. They’re a great egg-free cookie option, making them suitable for those with egg allergies.

During the holiday season, they’re often found on cookie trays alongside gingerbread and thumbprint cookies. Their buttery richness, powdered sugar dusting, and bite-sized shape make them a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

Conclusion: A Classic Cookie with a Sweetened Twist

These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies combine the nostalgia of a holiday favorite with a luscious, modern upgrade. The use of sweetened condensed milk transforms a traditional butter cookie into something creamier, softer, and even more irresistible. Whether you’re baking for your family, gifting a cookie box, or simply enjoying a cozy moment by yourself, these cookies deliver the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience every single time.

Their adaptability, ease of preparation, and unique taste make them a standout on any dessert table. Try them once, and they’ll become a permanent part of your baking traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

More Relevant Recipes

• Almond Meltaway Cookies Recipe: These buttery cookies feature a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture similar to snowball cookies and are topped with a light almond glaze. Perfect for holiday baking and tea-time treats.
• Cream Cheese Pistachio Cookies Recipe: A festive cookie combining rich cream cheese and crunchy pistachios. These cookies offer a slightly tangy twist and share a similar buttery, nutty profile to Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies.
• Snowball Oreo Cookie Balls: A no-bake dessert that mirrors the festive snowball style with crushed Oreo and cream cheese centers, rolled in powdered sugar or coconut. An easy and fun variation perfect for holiday platters.

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