Cookies are one of the most beloved desserts worldwide, and there’s something undeniably magical about the texture and flavor of snowball cookies. With their light, buttery flavor and delicate melt-in-your-mouth texture, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for the holiday season, a special celebration, or simply craving a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about making Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, from the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions. We’ll also provide tips on how to customize your cookies, storage suggestions, and answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
What Makes Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies So Special?
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a delicious twist on the classic snowball or Mexican wedding cookies. Traditionally made with butter, flour, and powdered sugar, these snowball cookies are given a rich, velvety texture and deep sweetness thanks to the addition of sweetened condensed milk. This ingredient adds a luxurious creaminess to the dough, resulting in cookies that are not only tender but also incredibly flavorful.
Another unique feature of this recipe is the option to include finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, which add a satisfying crunch and nutty depth to the cookies. If you’re looking for a melt-in-your-mouth cookie that balances the sweetness with a hint of salt and the richness of butter, these cookies are perfect!
Ingredients for Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
To make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the key items:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) – Butter is the base for these cookies, providing their rich and creamy texture. It’s essential to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the dough.
- ½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling) – Powdered sugar helps create a smooth, delicate texture in the dough, making it easy to form into snowball shapes. It also adds sweetness without making the dough too heavy.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – The star ingredient of these cookies, sweetened condensed milk adds incredible moisture and sweetness, making the cookies soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Vanilla adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The flour provides structure to the cookies and helps bind the ingredients together.
- ¼ tsp salt – A small amount of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the richness of the butter and condensed milk.
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (optional) – Chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, add texture and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sweetness of the cookies.

These ingredients are easy to find in any grocery store and come together to create a simple yet indulgent cookie dough.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies: Step-by-Step
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making these delectable cookies. Follow these easy-to-follow steps, and you’ll have a batch of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies that are sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Before you start mixing the dough, it’s essential to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat the mixture together until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is important because it creates the base for the cookies’ light texture.
Next, add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix well to ensure everything is thoroughly combined. The condensed milk will give the dough its moist and creamy consistency, while the vanilla extract adds a comforting, warm flavor.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix it, as this can result in dense cookies. If you’re adding nuts, fold them into the dough at this point. Pecans and walnuts are the most commonly used nuts in these cookies, but feel free to get creative and experiment with other options if you prefer.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Once the dough is mixed, it’s time to shape the cookies. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. You want the dough balls to be roughly the same size, so they bake evenly.
Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Since these cookies don’t spread much during baking, it’s okay to place them fairly close together.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 12-14 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just slightly golden. These cookies should remain pale, with a soft and tender texture.
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps them set properly.
Step 5: Coat the Cookies
While the cookies are still warm, it’s time to coat them in powdered sugar. Place the extra powdered sugar in a shallow dish and gently roll each cookie in the sugar until it’s completely coated. This step gives the cookies their characteristic “snowball” appearance and adds an extra touch of sweetness.
For an even more decadent finish, you can roll the cookies in powdered sugar again once they’ve cooled completely. This double-coating will create a beautiful snowy effect that’s perfect for holiday treats.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies have cooled completely, they’re ready to be enjoyed! The cookies have a light, buttery flavor with a subtle sweetness and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
There are several reasons why Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a must-try. Here are just a few:
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The combination of butter, sweetened condensed milk, and powdered sugar creates a smooth, tender dough that results in cookies that practically melt in your mouth.
- Rich, buttery flavor: The rich flavor of the butter and the sweetness of the condensed milk make these cookies incredibly indulgent.
- Customizable with nuts: Adding pecans or walnuts gives the cookies a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor. You can also skip the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version.
- Perfect for holidays and special occasions: These cookies are a great addition to any holiday spread or as a sweet gift for friends and family. Their snowy appearance makes them especially festive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used as a substitute, using unsalted butter will yield the best flavor and texture for these cookies. The richness of the butter contributes significantly to the overall taste.
2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This can actually help the cookies hold their shape better when baking. You can also freeze the dough for longer storage and bake them when you’re ready.
3. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can substitute pecans or walnuts with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer a different flavor. Just make sure to chop them finely so they mix well into the dough.
4. How do I store these cookies?
Store Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Conclusion: A Timeless, Delicious Cookie Recipe
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a classic treat that combines rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. With their buttery base, creamy sweetness, and delightful dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a casual snack. Their simplicity makes them easy to prepare, while the addition of sweetened condensed milk adds a unique twist that sets them apart from traditional snowball cookies.
Now that you have all the steps, tips, and variations at your disposal, you’re ready to bake a batch of these irresistible cookies and share them with friends and family. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the best Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies you’ve ever had!
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How to Make Irresistible Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies – A Perfect Holiday Treat
Ingredients
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1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
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½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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¼ tsp salt
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1 cup finely chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts, optional)
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
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Make the Cookie Dough:
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
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Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
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Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
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Fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
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Shape the Cookies:
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Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
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Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
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Bake the Cookies:
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Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are slightly golden.
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Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
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Coat the Cookies:
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While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated.
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Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
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Serve and Enjoy:
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Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar one more time for an extra snowy effect.
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Enjoy these sweet, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with a rich, buttery flavor!
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