Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies come together quickly and easily.
- Texture: The combination of butter and sweetened condensed milk creates a soft, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Versatility: This base recipe lends itself well to various add-ins and flavor variations, allowing for customization to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on high speed until light and creamy, approximately 2 minutes.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk (and vanilla extract, if using) and mix on medium speed until well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the flour is incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
- Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden while the tops remain pale.
- Cool and Dust: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, use a sifter to generously dust the tops with powdered sugar.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 14 to 15 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 to 14 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to add a delightful crunch.
- Citrus Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of finely grated lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Spiced Flavor: Mix in ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to infuse the cookies with warm, cozy spices.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What makes these cookies “snowball” cookies?
The name “snowball” comes from the cookies’ round shape and the generous coating of powdered sugar, giving them a snowball-like appearance.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. If you do, consider omitting any additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Is it necessary to add vanilla extract?
Vanilla extract is optional but recommended, as it enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
Can I add other mix-ins to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut to customize the cookies to your liking.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough. Chilling the dough briefly before baking can also help maintain their shape.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage. When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature if refrigerated, or thaw if frozen, before proceeding.
Why are my cookies browning on top?
If the tops of your cookies are browning, it may be due to overbaking or your oven temperature being too high. Ensure you’re baking at the recommended temperature and keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
How should I serve these cookies?
These cookies are delightful on their own but can also be served alongside a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa. They make a lovely addition to holiday cookie trays or as homemade gifts.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe can be doubled to yield more cookies. Ensure you have enough baking sheets and oven space to accommodate the larger batch.
Are these cookies suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! Their charming appearance and delicious taste make them perfect for gifting during the holidays or as a thoughtful homemade treat for friends and family.
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a delightful addition to
