Hello, cookie enthusiasts! Whether it’s the holiday season or a cozy winter evening, there’s something magical about biting into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie dusted with confectioner’s sugar. These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are easy to make, utterly delightful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Let’s create a batch of this winter treat that everyone will adore!
Introduction
Snowball cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a traditional treat loved worldwide for their buttery, crumbly texture. This version uses sweetened condensed milk, making the cookies irresistibly moist and slightly sweet. They’re perfect for festive occasions, casual gatherings, or a comforting snack with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Plus, they require just a handful of ingredients and are incredibly simple to prepare. If you’ve been searching for an easy cookie recipe with maximum flavor, this is the one for you.
Ingredients
To make these delightful Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, you’ll need:
- 1 cup softened butter
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup confectioner’s sugar (for dusting)
These simple ingredients combine to create a cookie that’s soft, buttery, and dusted with just the right amount of sweetness.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies:
- Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and fluffy. This step ensures your cookies have the perfect soft texture.
- Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk: Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, blending until well combined. This adds a delightful sweetness and helps bind the dough.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should be easy to handle but not overly sticky.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Shape the Dough: Scoop small amounts of dough and roll them into balls using your hands. Place the balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are slightly golden. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking, as they should remain tender.
- Dust with Confectioner’s Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool slightly, then generously dust them with confectioner’s sugar for that classic snowball look.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
For best results, make sure to use room-temperature butter, as it blends more smoothly with the condensed milk. If your dough feels too sticky to roll, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before shaping. For an extra festive touch, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough. These small adjustments can enhance the flavor and make the cookies uniquely yours.
Cooking Tips
To ensure even baking, roll the dough into uniform-sized balls and space them evenly on the baking sheet. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, finely chop pecans or walnuts and mix them into the dough before rolling. This variation adds a delicious crunch and complements the sweet, buttery base of the cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are perfect for serving with a hot beverage like tea, coffee, or cocoa. For a festive display, arrange them on a decorative platter and sprinkle with extra confectioner’s sugar just before serving. They also make wonderful edible gifts when packaged in pretty boxes or tins, tied with a ribbon.
Nutritional Information
These cookies are a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s an approximate breakdown of their nutritional value per serving:
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Sugar: 5g
While these cookies are not the healthiest snack, they’re a delightful indulgence for special occasions or a sweet pick-me-up.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze: If you want to prepare them in advance, freeze the unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
Reheat: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can warm them slightly in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
What if I don’t have confectioner’s sugar?
You can blend granulated sugar in a food processor until it’s finely powdered as a substitute for confectioner’s sugar.
Can I add flavors to the cookies?
Absolutely! Vanilla extract, almond extract, or a pinch of nutmeg can add unique flavors to the dough.
Related Recipes
If you loved these cookies, try these other delightful recipes:
- Classic Butter Cookies
- Holiday Gingerbread Cookies
- Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
- Vanilla Shortbread Biscuits
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a timeless treat that’s perfect for winter gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy day at home. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a go-to recipe for cookie lovers of all ages. Gather your ingredients and try this recipe today—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!