Quick Overview
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful cookie that melts in your mouth, look no further than Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies. These treats are not just scrumptiously sweet but also incredibly easy to whip up. The rich flavor of sweetened condensed milk elevates the taste profile of traditional snowball cookies while keeping them soft and tender. Ideal for holiday gatherings or simply as an everyday treat, these cookies are sure to please everyone in the family. Plus, they require minimal effort and common pantry ingredients.
These cookies come together quickly and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later. Their delicate texture makes them perfect for pairing with tea or coffee. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies provide the perfect blend of sweetness and nostalgia. So gather your ingredients and prepare to create a delicious batch that will impress friends and family alike!
Ingredient Breakdown
– All-purpose flour (2 cups)
This forms the base of our cookies, providing structure and texture. It helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth quality we’re aiming for.
– Powdered sugar (1 cup)
Powdered sugar adds sweetness while also contributing to a smooth texture. It’s essential for dusting the finished cookies to give them that classic snowball appearance.
– Sweetened condensed milk (1 cup)
This ingredient is the star of the show! It provides moisture and a rich sweetness that distinguishes these cookies from others.
– Butter (1/2 cup, softened)
Butter adds richness and enhances flavor. Make sure it’s softened to help mix smoothly into the dough.
– Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
Vanilla offers warmth and depth to the flavor profile. A little goes a long way in making these cookies even more delicious.
– Chopped nuts (optional, 1/2 cup)
Pecans or walnuts can add an extra crunch if desired. They complement the soft texture of the cookie beautifully.
Step By Step Recipe: Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
1. Preheat your oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when you place your cookie dough in, they bake evenly right from the start.
2. Prepare baking sheets
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup after baking.
3. Mix dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of powdered sugar until well combined. Set aside while you mix other ingredients.
4. Cream butter and sweetened condensed milk
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter with 1 cup sweetened condensed milk until smooth and fluffy using an electric mixer.
5. Add vanilla extract
Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the creamed mixture until fully incorporated, ensuring even distribution of flavor throughout the dough.
6. Combine mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture while stirring constantly until everything is well combined and forms a soft dough.
7. Fold in nuts (if using)
If you’re adding nuts, gently fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough until evenly distributed throughout.
8. Shape cookies
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form dough into small balls about one inch in diameter and place them on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
9. Bake cookies
Place trays in preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft; this keeps them tender after cooling.
10. Cool and dust with powdered sugar
Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for about five minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely; dust with powdered sugar once cooled.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are delightful when served warm from the oven with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. Pair them with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat that’s sure to impress guests during gatherings or celebrations. For added flair at parties, arrange them on a decorative platter alongside other baked goods like brownies or mini tarts for variety.
Storage Guidelines
To keep your snowball cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze these cookies for longer storage; simply place them in freezer bags separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking together. When ready to enjoy again, thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for just a few seconds to regain their tenderness without drying out.
Mistakes to avoid
When making Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can ruin your batch. One frequent mistake is not measuring the ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even slight variations can affect the texture and flavor of your cookies. Always use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for dry and wet ingredients.
Another common error is overmixing the dough. While it’s tempting to ensure everything is fully combined, overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired tender texture. Mix just until you see no dry flour, then stop. Additionally, failing to chill the dough before baking can result in cookies that spread too much in the oven. Chilling helps maintain their shape.
Lastly, don’t forget to preheat your oven. Baking cookies in an unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and undesirable results. Ensure your oven reaches the required temperature before placing your cookies inside.
Tips and tricks
To perfect your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, consider these helpful tips. First, use high-quality sweetened condensed milk for a richer flavor. Brands may vary in taste and consistency, influencing your final product. Choosing a reputable brand ensures you get the best results.
Second, incorporate nuts like pecans or walnuts into your cookie dough for added texture and flavor. Chop them finely so they mix well with the other ingredients without overwhelming the cookie’s delicate nature.
Experiment with flavorings as well; adding vanilla extract enhances the sweetness of the condensed milk while providing depth to each bite. You might also consider using almond extract for a unique twist.
Lastly, roll the cookies in powdered sugar immediately after baking when they are still warm. This creates a delightful coating that adds sweetness and enhances their appearance.
Suggestions for Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
When serving Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, presentation matters just as much as taste. Consider arranging them on a decorative platter dusted with powdered sugar for a festive look. This simple touch elevates their visual appeal and makes them more inviting.
Pair these cookies with beverages such as coffee or hot chocolate for a delightful experience. The creamy sweetness of the cookies complements these drinks perfectly, making them an ideal treat during colder months or holiday gatherings.
You might also experiment by adding colored sprinkles or edible glitter to your powdered sugar coating for special occasions like birthdays or holidays. This fun addition makes them visually striking and festive without altering their delicious taste.
Finally, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh longer. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later enjoyment; just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing.
FAQs
What are Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies?
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are delightful treats rich in flavor and have a soft texture due to sweetened condensed milk as a primary ingredient. These cookies are often rolled into small balls and coated with powdered sugar after baking, giving them a snowy appearance and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with their buttery base.
Can I substitute ingredients in Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies?
Yes, you can substitute certain ingredients if necessary. For example, you might replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if someone has dietary restrictions. However, keep in mind that this may alter the final texture slightly. Additionally, you could use vegan butter instead of traditional butter for a dairy-free version of these delicious cookies.
How should I store Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies?
To keep your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need longer storage options, consider freezing them by placing cooled cookies in a single layer on parchment paper before transferring them into airtight bags or containers designed for freezing.
Can I add chocolate chips to my recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can provide an extra layer of richness and flavor to your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies. Just fold in about half a cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough before rolling it into balls for baking; this will enhance every bite without overwhelming their signature taste.
Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?
Several factors could lead to excessive spreading when baking Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies. A common reason is not chilling the dough before baking; chilled dough maintains its shape better during cooking. Another possibility is using melted butter instead of softened butter; ensure it’s at room temperature when mixing your ingredients.
How long do these cookies take to bake?
Typically, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies take about 10-12 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking time; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.
Summary
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies offer delightful flavors that everyone enjoys. Avoid mistakes like improper measurements and overmixing to ensure success every time you bake these treats. Follow helpful tips such as using quality ingredients and rolling warm cookies in powdered sugar for enhanced taste and appearance. Store leftovers properly or freeze them for future enjoyment while considering fun serving suggestions that elevate their charm!