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Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs – Soft, Buttery & Melt-In-Your-Mouth Holiday Cookies

If you're dreaming of a holiday cookie that is soft, buttery, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are about to become your new Christmas favorite. They’re the kind of cookie that looks snowy, feels magical, and tastes like the holidays wrapped into one perfect bite. Unlike traditional snowball cookies made with powdered sugar and chopped nuts, this version features sweetened condensed milk, giving it a rich, creamy flavor and unbelievably soft texture. No eggs, no complicated steps — just a few ingredients and you’ll create cookies that disappear faster than you can make them. They’re perfect for: Christmas dessert platters Cookie boxes Festive gatherings Winter parties “Make ahead” holiday baking Homemade gifts If you want an easy recipe that still feels special, festive, and impressively delicious, these cookies belong in your Christmas baking lineup.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
bake time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 28 cookies
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 pinch salt optional
Dairy
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • ½ cup sweetened condensed milk

✨ Kitchen Essentials You’ll Love

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    Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

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    Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric

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    CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer XL 10L

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Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Small cookie scoop (optional but useful)

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    Step 2: In a bowl, cream the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until light and fluffy.
      Step 3: Add the flour, baking powder, confectioners’ sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
        Step 4: Roll small portions of dough into smooth balls using your hands or a cookie scoop.
          Step 5: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking tray, leaving a little space between each one.
            Step 6: Bake for 10–12 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
              Step 7: Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

                Notes

                🧊 Storage & Reheating
                Room Temperature
                Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
                Freezer
                Freeze baked cookies for 2–3 months. Thaw and dust again with powdered sugar.
                Make Ahead
                You can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking.
                🥄 Variations
                Snowy Coconut Version: Roll in shredded coconut instead of powdered sugar.
                Nutty Snowballs: Add ½ cup finely chopped pecans or almonds.
                Spiced Christmas Version: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
                Chocolate Drizzle: Finish with melted white or dark chocolate.
                Lemon Snowballs: Add lemon zest for brightness.
                Almond Snowballs: Replace vanilla with almond extract.
                ❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions
                1. Can I use salted butter?
                Yes, but reduce or omit the pinch of salt.
                2. Why did my cookies spread?
                Your butter may have been too soft — chill the dough for 10 minutes.
                3. Can I use condensed coconut milk?
                Yes, it makes them dairy-free and still delicious.
                4. Can I freeze the dough?
                Yes, freeze rolled dough balls for up to 3 months.
                5. Do I need eggs for this recipe?
                No — sweetened condensed milk replaces the eggs.
                6. Can I make them gluten-free?
                Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
                7. Why are my cookies dry?
                Add 1–2 tablespoons more condensed milk if needed.
                8. Can I double the recipe?
                Yes, it doubles perfectly for large cookie boxes.
                9. Can I add chocolate chips?
                Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips work best.
                10. Are these good for gifting?
                Yes — they hold their shape well and stay soft for days.
                🏁 Conclusion
                These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are everything a Christmas cookie should be — soft, buttery, snowy, and incredibly easy to bake. They melt on your tongue and leave behind a creamy sweetness that feels like pure holiday magic. Whether you're gifting them, serving them, or baking them with family, this recipe brings warmth, joy, and nostalgia to every bite.