Description
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are tender, buttery cookies with a delicate crumb and a nutty crunch, coated in a snowy layer of powdered sugar. These classic American dessert treats are perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a melt-in-your-mouth sweet snack. Made with simple ingredients including sweetened condensed milk, butter, and your choice of nuts, these cookies offer a rich and satisfying flavor that delights the senses.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Coating
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and catch any crumbs.
- Cream Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until it becomes creamy and smooth, creating a fluffy base for the dough.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to the butter, mixing well until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until everything is combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Incorporate Nuts: Fold in the finely chopped walnuts or pecans evenly throughout the dough to add texture and flavor.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden but the tops remain pale, indicating perfect doneness.
- Initial Coating: Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes so they are warm but firm enough to handle. Roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat them in an initial layer.
- Final Coating: Once the cookies have completely cooled to room temperature, roll them again in powdered sugar for a bright, snowy finish that enhances their sweetness and appearance.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute the walnuts or pecans with almonds or hazelnuts, or omit nuts entirely if preferred.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- These cookies freeze well, making them ideal for preparing in advance for holiday gatherings or special events.
