Snowball cookies are beloved treats that capture the cozy, festive spirit of the holiday season. Known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle sweetness, these cookies are often coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar that makes them look like little snowballs—perfect for winter celebrations! In this recipe, we’ll elevate the traditional snowball cookie by using sweetened condensed milk, which adds a rich, smooth sweetness and helps create a softer, more tender crumb.

This guide covers everything you need to make these sweetened condensed milk snowball cookies, from preparation tips to ingredient lists. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party, a family gathering, or just for yourself, these cookies are sure to impress.

Overview of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Sweetened condensed milk brings a delightful sweetness and texture to snowball cookies that sets them apart from other recipes. It adds moisture and richness, resulting in cookies that are not only tender but also easier to shape. These snowball cookies are a variation of the classic “Russian Tea Cakes” and “Mexican Wedding Cookies,” and they offer a buttery, nutty flavor with a perfectly crumbly texture.

If you love buttery desserts, you might also enjoy our Butter Cake Recipe – A Step-by-Step Guide.

Brief History and Cultural Significance of Snowball Cookies

Snowball cookies have a long, cherished history across many cultures. Known by different names, such as Russian Tea Cakes, Mexican Wedding Cookies, and Italian Butterballs, these cookies have been enjoyed at celebrations worldwide. Traditionally made with nuts like pecans or walnuts, they are often enjoyed during Christmas and other holidays, symbolizing warmth and hospitality.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Time Breakdown:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Cool Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Yield: About 2 dozen cookies

Essential Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools is crucial to creating the perfect snowball cookies. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Mixing Bowls: Use different sizes to separate dry and wet ingredients.
Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Essential for creaming butter and mixing ingredients until well-combined.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key for achieving the right consistency.
Cookie Scoop: Helps portion out uniform cookies.
Baking Sheets: Non-stick baking sheets are ideal to prevent cookies from sticking.
Parchment Paper: Keeps cookies from sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
Wire Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly, which is important for achieving the ideal texture.
Sifter: For dusting the cookies with confectioner’s sugar.

Importance of Each Tool

Each tool plays a role in ensuring the cookies are consistent in shape and taste. For instance, the mixer is essential for achieving the correct texture, while the cookie scoop ensures even baking by creating uniform-sized cookies. The sifter helps you evenly coat the cookies with confectioner’s sugar, giving them their signature “snowball” appearance.

Achieving the Right Texture: For that melt-in-your-mouth texture, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before you begin.
Chill the Dough: Chilling isn’t necessary for this version, but if your kitchen is warm, you might chill the dough for 10 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Even Coating with Confectioner’s Sugar: Dust the cookies once they’re cool for a soft, snowy appearance.

Ingredients List (with Measurements)

Here’s everything you need to make these delicious snowball cookies:

1 cup softened butter
1 can sweetened condensed milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup confectioner’s sugar (for dusting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cream the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and fluffy.
Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing well until everything is fully incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the flour and baking powder to the butter mixture, mixing until you have a soft dough. Be careful not to overmix.
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Shape the Dough
Roll small amounts of dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
Bake the Cookies
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are slightly golden. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the cookies too dry.
Cool and Dust with Confectioner’s Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Once they’re cool enough to handle but still warm, dust each cookie with confectioner’s sugar for a light, snowy coating.

Enjoy your homemade sweetened condensed milk snowball cookies! These delightful treats will stay fresh for about a week in an airtight container, making them ideal for gifting or saving for later enjoyment.

Side Dish and Beverage Recommendations

Snowball cookies are versatile, pairing well with a range of beverages and sides, especially during the winter season. Here are some delightful options to enjoy alongside your sweetened condensed milk snowball cookies:

Hot Cocoa

Rich and creamy, hot cocoa complements the light, buttery texture of snowball cookies perfectly. Top it with whipped cream or marshmallows for an indulgent pairing.

Peppermint Tea

The refreshing minty notes of peppermint tea cut through the sweetness of the cookies, offering a lighter contrast and refreshing taste.

Mulled Wine

For holiday gatherings, serve snowball cookies with warm mulled wine. The spiced, fruity flavors create a festive combination that’s perfect for a cozy night.

Coffee Variations (Latte, Cappuccino, Espresso)

Coffee’s robust flavor balances the sweetness of snowball cookies. Choose an espresso for a bold contrast or a creamy latte for a harmonious pairing.

Eggnog

The rich, creamy taste of eggnog complements the powdered sugar and buttery flavor of the cookies, adding to their indulgent appeal.

Spiced Apple Cider

Warm spiced apple cider enhances the holiday flavors in snowball cookies with its hints of cinnamon and cloves.

Almond Milk with Honey

A nutty, lightly sweetened almond milk drink can provide a dairy-free, cozy pairing option that complements the cookie’s subtle nutty notes.

Gingerbread Latte

Gingerbread lattes add a festive touch, with spicy notes that pair well with the cookies’ delicate, buttery flavor.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Each snowball cookie offers a delightful bite of buttery flavor and sweetness, but it’s also important to enjoy these treats in moderation. Below is a general outline of the nutritional content:

Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories per cookie, depending on the size
Fat: Primarily from butter, contributing to the cookie’s soft texture
Carbohydrates: Primarily from flour and sugar
Protein: Minor amounts from flour and butter

Health Benefits and Modifications

While snowball cookies are traditionally a treat, they can be modified to be slightly lighter:

Reduced Sugar: Try reducing the confectioner’s sugar dusting, or opt for a less sweetened version.
Healthier Fats: Substitute half the butter with coconut oil to add a hint of coconut flavor and slightly reduce saturated fat.
Nut-free Option: Although nuts are not a primary ingredient in this recipe, they can often be added to snowball cookies. For those with nut allergies, simply skip the optional nut coatings or additions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Avoiding Dry or Crumbly Cookies

Mistake: Overbaking or using too much flour can lead to dry, crumbly cookies.
Solution: Be careful to measure flour accurately and check the cookies at the minimum baking time to avoid overbaking.

Ensuring Proper Powdered Sugar Coating

Mistake: Powdered sugar can sometimes melt or fail to stick if the cookies are too warm or too cool.
Solution: Dust the cookies with confectioner’s sugar while they are warm, but not hot, to allow the sugar to stick perfectly without melting.

Achieving the Perfect Shape

Mistake: Cookies can flatten or lose shape if the dough is too warm or overmixed.
Solution: If your dough becomes too soft to handle, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before rolling into balls.

Preventing Overspreading

Mistake: Over-spreading can happen if the butter is too warm or too much baking powder is used.
Solution: Use softened butter rather than melted, and stick to the recommended 1 teaspoon of baking powder for best results.

Getting the Right Consistency

Mistake: Overmixing the dough can make it too dense, affecting the texture.
Solution: Mix ingredients just until combined, especially after adding the flour, to avoid a tough cookie.

Mastering these simple techniques will help you bake snowball cookies that are perfectly tender, with just the right amount of powdered sugar coating and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. With a bit of practice, these tips will ensure your cookies come out perfect every time.

Part 3: Tips, Storage, FAQs, and Conclusion

Tips, Notes, Storing, and Reheating

Storage Tips for Snowball Cookies

Sweetened condensed milk snowball cookies are best when stored in a cool, dry place. Follow these tips to keep them fresh:

Airtight Container: Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and prevent them from becoming dry or stale.
Layer with Parchment Paper: If stacking the cookies, place a layer of parchment paper between each layer to avoid them sticking together.
Room Temperature or Refrigerator: These cookies can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. Alternatively, refrigerate them for extended freshness—just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing Recommendations

Snowball cookies freeze exceptionally well, making them a great option to prepare in advance:

Freeze Before Coating: For best results, freeze the cookies before the final powdered sugar coating. This way, they can be dusted freshly after defrosting.
To Freeze: Place the cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
To Thaw: Let the cookies sit at room temperature for about an hour. Once thawed, roll them in confectioner’s sugar for a fresh, snowy look.

Reheating for Freshness

If you prefer your cookies slightly warm, pop them in the oven for 2-3 minutes at 300°F (150°C) after thawing. This will bring back their buttery aroma without melting the sugar coating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about sweetened condensed milk snowball cookies, inspired by the “People Also Ask” section:

Can I make snowball cookies without nuts?

Absolutely! This recipe is already nut-free, but if you want a traditional version, you could add finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. Simply fold them into the dough at the end for a bit of crunch.

Why does my powdered sugar melt off the cookies?

The powdered sugar can sometimes melt if the cookies are too warm or if there’s too much moisture in the environment. To prevent this, let the cookies cool slightly before rolling them in sugar and apply a second coat once they’re fully cooled.

Can I substitute sweetened condensed milk in this recipe?

Sweetened condensed milk is essential for the unique texture and sweetness in this recipe, so it’s best not to substitute it. However, for a slightly different twist, you could try condensed coconut milk, which will add a hint of coconut flavor.

How long do snowball cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies can stay fresh for about a week. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them as noted above.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make snowball cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. This ensures they’ll still have a similar texture and taste, without the gluten.

Conclusion

Sweetened condensed milk snowball cookies are a delightfully simple, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or a cozy night in. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create cookies that are tender, buttery, and lightly sweetened, all wrapped in a snowy layer of confectioner’s sugar. Their versatility makes them an ideal choice for bakers of all levels, and they’re easy to modify with optional ingredients or serving pairings.

Enjoy baking these cookies and share them with friends and family for a little taste of winter magic. Happy baking!

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Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Overview of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Brief History and Cultural Significance of Snowball Cookies