Name: Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (softened); 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 15 reviews

I absolutely adore these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe because they are a perfect blend of buttery richness and delicate sweetness wrapped in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whenever I make them, I find myself amazed at how simple ingredients come together to create such an irresistibly soft and festive cookie that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. These little snowballs dusted with confectioners’ sugar always bring joy to any occasion, and I just can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Why You’ll Love This Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate filled with several round, soft cookies dusted with white powdered sugar. One cookie is placed slightly apart on the white marbled surface next to the plate. The cookies have a lightly cracked surface texture and a pale, creamy color underneath the sugar. Around the plate are pinecones and green pine branches with some red decorations, adding a festive touch. The lighting is soft and natural, casting gentle shadows. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

From the very first bite, what hooks me about this recipe is the gentle sweetness paired with the buttery base, elevated by the subtle creaminess of the sweetened condensed milk. The cookies have this delicate crumb that almost dissolves on your tongue, leaving behind a lovely aftertaste that is not overly sweet but simply delightful. I love that the powdered sugar dusting mimics fresh snow, giving these treats a magical, wintry feel—perfect for cozy afternoons or holiday celebrations.

One of the best things about this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe is how approachable it is. The preparation is straightforward without any complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. Even on a busy day, I can whip these up with minimal fuss, making them an ideal go-to for last-minute gatherings or when I want a quick homemade treat. Plus, their soft texture and sweet surface make them stand out from your typical cookie lineup—they genuinely feel like a special, handcrafted delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, pantry-staple ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering the rich flavor and tender texture these snowballs are known for. With the right balance, you get a soft, buttery cookie coated in a snowy blanket of sweetness.

Butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation for the cookie’s rich and tender crumb, making each bite luxuriously smooth.
Sweetened condensed milk (1/2 cup): Adds a creamy sweetness and helps bind the dough for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth quality.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the structure that holds the cookie together without making it too dense.
Baking powder (3 teaspoons): Ensures a delicate rise, keeping the snowballs light and fluffy rather than flat.
Confectioners’ sugar (1/2 cup): For dusting—this not only adds an extra touch of sweetness but also gives the cookies their iconic snowy look.

Directions

Step 1: I start by creaming the softened butter in a mixing bowl. I beat it for about 3 minutes until it looks light and fluffy—that’s when you know it’s ready to create a tender cookie base.

Step 2: Next, I gradually add the sweetened condensed milk to the butter, continuing to beat for 2 minutes to ensure it’s fully combined and smooth. If you want to get creative, this is a great time to add up to 2 teaspoons of an extract, like vanilla or almond, for a subtle layer of flavor.

Step 3: I always make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl before beating the mixture for another 1-2 minutes. This guarantees there are no streaks of unmixed butter or condensed milk lurking around.

Step 4: Then, I add the flour and baking powder. Using a mixer on low, I beat until just incorporated—overmixing can make the cookies tough, so I watch carefully here. If I’m feeling adventurous, I fold in mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried cranberries at this stage, up to a cup, which adds a fun twist.

Step 5: I scoop out the dough using a cookie scoop to get evenly sized mounds and place them at least 2 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Even spacing helps them bake evenly and keeps their round shape.

Step 6: I preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C) and bake the cookies for 12 minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don’t brown—these cookies are supposed to be pale and tender, not golden.

Step 7: Right after removing the baking sheet, I let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up slightly so they’re easier to transfer without breaking.

Step 8: Carefully transferring them to a wire rack, I dust the cookies generously with confectioners’ sugar using a fine sifter. This step is what transforms these treats into those classic snowball beauties.

Step 9: Finally, I let the cookies cool completely before storing. This ensures the sugar coating sets perfectly and the cookies keep their delicate texture.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 12 delicious servings, enough to share at a small gathering or to keep a few for yourself to enjoy over a few days. The prep time is roughly 10 minutes, with about 12 minutes of baking time and an additional 5 minutes of cooling on the pan. Altogether, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish, which is pretty fantastic for a homemade cookie that tastes so indulgent. No extended resting or chilling times are needed, so you can dive right into enjoying these snowballs soon after baking!

How to Serve This Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe

I love serving these snowballs at room temperature, allowing the soft, buttery texture to truly shine. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or rich coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up. If I’m feeling festive, I sometimes plate them alongside spiced cider or a warm hot chocolate, making the perfect cozy snack on chilly evenings.

Presentation-wise, dusting them generously with confectioners’ sugar is a must for that snowy vibe. For a little extra flair, I like to place these sweet treats on a pretty platter lined with parchment paper and garnish with a few sprigs of fresh mint or dried cranberries for a pop of color. When I’m serving guests, I arrange 2-3 per person, which feels just right to satisfy a sweet craving without overdoing it.

These snowballs also shine during holiday parties or casual get-togethers because they’re easy to eat with fingers and look so inviting. They make a dreamy addition to dessert tables, cookie exchanges, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift nestled in a decorative tin. No matter the occasion, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies always get compliments and requests for seconds!

Variations

I’ve found the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe to be super versatile when it comes to customization. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend works beautifully without compromising texture. For a vegan twist, I replace the butter with a quality vegan margarine and use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative, and I’m happy to report that they come out just as lovely.

Flavor-wise, you can experiment by adding extracts such as peppermint for a holiday feel or lemon for a bright, zesty contrast to the sweetness. I’ve also enjoyed folding in finely chopped nuts, mini white chocolate chips, or dried fruit like cherries and apricots to add extra texture and bursts of flavor.

While baking at 320°F is ideal for the classic soft finish, I sometimes try a slightly lower temperature with longer baking time to achieve an even more tender texture for a meltier bite. No matter how you adjust it, this recipe offers a fantastic foundation for creative adaptations that make it your own.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature, ensuring they are fully cooled first to avoid sogginess. I find they stay delightfully fresh for about 4 to 5 days, retaining their soft texture and sweetness. Layering them between sheets of parchment paper helps prevent sticking and keeps the sugar coating intact.

Freezing

Freezing these snowballs is definitely possible and a great option if you want to prepare ahead. I wrap the cooled cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or bag. They keep well frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, I recommend thawing them overnight at room temperature to preserve that tender crumb and fresh taste.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm the snowballs in a low-temperature oven (around 275°F or 135°C) for 5 minutes. This helps restore their delicate softness without drying them out. Avoid using a microwave, which can make the cookies mushy or rubbery. After warming, I lightly dust with extra confectioners’ sugar if needed to freshen up their appearance and sweetness before serving.

FAQs

Can I add flavor extracts to the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe?

Absolutely! I often add vanilla, almond, or even peppermint extract to enhance the flavor. Just be sure not to exceed 2 teaspoons to keep a balanced taste.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough after adding the flour. Also, chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes can help if you notice them spreading too much, although this recipe typically holds its shape well.

Do these snowballs keep their soft texture for several days?

Yes, if stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the snowballs remain soft and tender for up to 5 days. Just ensure they are cooled completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can! Use a vegan butter substitute and replace the sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based condensed milk alternative made from coconut or soy. The texture and taste will be slightly different but still delicious.

What is the best way to serve these cookies during the holidays?

I like to serve them dusted heavily with confectioners’ sugar on a festive platter, paired with warm drinks like spiced cider or eggnog. Adding a garnish like fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary makes the presentation extra special.

Conclusion

I can’t recommend this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe enough for anyone looking for a delightfully simple yet indulgent cookie. They’re soft, buttery, and lightly sweet, making them perfect for any occasion big or small. Once you try them, I’m confident they’ll become a cherished part of your baking repertoire, bringing a little snowy magic to your kitchen!