Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
Soft, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies dusted with snowy powdered sugar.
Introduction
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a dreamy twist on the classic holiday snowball cookie. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture, delicate sweetness, and snowy powdered-sugar finish, they’re a festive favorite for gatherings, holidays, and cozy evenings. The condensed milk adds extra tenderness, making these cookies irresistibly soft and decadent.
Ingredients & Quantities
1 cup butter, softened
1 can (14 oz / ~396 g) sweetened condensed milk
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Optional: 1 cup finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or shredded coconut
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth.
3. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
4. Add in the flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Fold in nuts or coconut if using.
6. Roll the dough into small balls (1 tablespoon each).
7. Place on the baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms turn lightly golden.
8. While still slightly warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar for their “snowball” coating.
9. Let cool completely, then roll once more for extra snowy effect.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Snowball cookies—also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes, and Butterballs—have roots in European celebration pastries. Their signature snowy sugar coating made them a beloved treat for winter holidays. This version using sweetened condensed milk is a modern fusion that adds creaminess and softness while keeping the nostalgic charm.
Description
These cookies crumble delicately with each bite, offering buttery richness balanced by the silky sweetness of condensed milk. With their powdered-sugar finish, they look like tiny snowballs—perfect for holiday tables, gift boxes, or warm family moments.
Optional Additions
Shredded coconut for extra snow-like texture
Mini chocolate chips
Chopped pecans or walnuts
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg
Almond extract in place of vanilla
Tips for Success
Don’t overbake — these cookies should stay pale to remain soft.
If the dough feels sticky, chill it for 15 minutes.
Roll in powdered sugar twice for maximum snowy coverage.
Store in an airtight container to maintain softness.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per cookie)
Values vary depending on size and add-ins.
Calories: ~120
Fat: 7–8 g
Carbohydrates: 13–15 g
Sugar: 6–8 g
Protein: ~1 g
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are the perfect combination of simplicity, elegance, and nostalgic comfort. Whether for holidays or everyday indulgence, they never fail to delight.
Recommendation
Serve them with hot chocolate, coffee, or a festive spiced latte. They also make wonderful edible gifts—pack them in tins or bags for a sweet homemade surprise.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoy these cookies as a small, joyful treat—proof that a little sweetness can brighten any day. Mindful portions, warm moments, and shared smiles make each bite even more meaningful.