If you’re looking for a festive, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s easy to make and impossible to resist, this sweetened condensed milk snowball cookie recipe deserves a spot in your baking rotation. These delicate cookies are soft on the inside, lightly golden underneath, and generously coated in powdered sugar for that signature snowy finish. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or simply craving a comforting homemade dessert, these snowball cookies deliver every time.
What makes this dessert recipe so special is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, sweetened condensed milk replaces traditional sugar and eggs, creating a rich, tender dough that practically melts as soon as it touches your tongue. The result is a buttery cookie with a subtle sweetness and a smooth texture that feels indulgent yet comforting.
Snowball cookies have been loved across cultures for generations. Known by many names—wedding cookies, tea cakes, or festive butter balls—they’re often associated with celebrations and special occasions. This version, made with sweetened condensed milk, adds an extra layer of richness while keeping the process straightforward and beginner-friendly.
Why You’ll Love This Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Recipe
This dessert recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Minimal ingredients: You only need a handful of basics to create bakery-quality cookies.
- No eggs required: Sweetened condensed milk provides moisture and sweetness without eggs.
- Soft, buttery texture: Each bite is tender and rich, with a true melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Perfect for gifting: Their snowy appearance makes them ideal for holiday cookie boxes.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with nuts, spices, or flavor extracts.
These cookies are especially popular during festive seasons, but they’re just as delightful year-round with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup powdered sugar (icing sugar), for coating
Optional additions:
- Finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
- Vanilla or almond extract
- A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside. - Create the base:
In a large mixing bowl, add the chilled, cubed butter, flour, and salt. Using your fingertips, gently rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles damp sand. This step is key to achieving a tender texture. - Add the sweetened condensed milk:
Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and gently mix with your hands until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing—stop as soon as the dough comes together. - Shape the cookies:
Scoop about one tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. - Bake:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale—this ensures a soft interior. - First sugar coating:
Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes. While still warm, roll them in powdered sugar to create the first snowy layer. - Final coating:
Once completely cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again for a thicker, more dramatic snowball finish.
Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies
- Always use chilled butter to maintain the delicate texture.
- Do not overbake—these cookies should stay pale on top.
- Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while warm so it sticks properly.
- A second coating after cooling gives them a beautiful, bakery-style look.
Creative Variations
This sweetened condensed milk snowball dessert recipe is wonderfully adaptable:
- Nutty version: Add chopped toasted nuts for crunch.
- Spiced snowballs: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom.
- Chocolate twist: Add cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips.
- Coconut snowballs: Fold in shredded coconut and roll in coconut flakes.
- Citrus flavor: Add lemon or orange zest for a fresh finish.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 1 week.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
These cookies are perfect for preparing ahead of time, making them ideal for holiday baking or dessert planning.
Final Thoughts
This sweetened condensed milk snowball recipe proves that the best desserts don’t need to be complicated. With their buttery flavor, soft texture, and snowy powdered sugar coating, these cookies are guaranteed to become a favorite on your dessert table. Whether you serve them during the holidays or bake them just because, they’re a simple pleasure worth savoring.
