Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for festive occasions or as an everyday indulgence. These buttery, crumbly cookies, rolled in powdered sugar, resemble little snowballs, making them a favorite during the winter holidays. Their unique texture comes from the addition of sweetened condensed milk, which adds a hint of caramel-like richness to the classic recipe. Let’s dive into this all-inclusive guide to making these delicious cookies!
History of Snowball Cookies
Snowball cookies, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes, have a long-standing tradition in global cuisines. Their origin is debated, but they are often associated with European and Mexican celebrations. Their hallmark is the powdered sugar coating, which resembles snow and gives them their signature name.
Benefits of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
- Nutritional Boost: Sweetened condensed milk provides a concentrated source of calcium and energy.
- Festive Appeal: These cookies are visually appealing and perfect for gifting or entertaining.
- Versatility: They can be customized with nuts, spices, or flavor extracts.
Ingredients
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup finely chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Nuts: Finely chop the nuts of your choice and set them aside.
Cookie Dough Formation
- Cream Butter and Condensed Milk: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sweetened condensed milk together until creamy and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour and salt until well combined.
- Incorporate Vanilla and Nuts: Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
Shaping and Baking
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Coating the Cookies
- First Roll: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar.
- Second Roll: Once completely cool, roll them again in powdered sugar for a thick, snowy coating.
Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)
Calories: ~120
Protein: 1.5g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 6g
Tips and Methods for Success
Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before shaping.
Nut Substitutions: Swap pecans or walnuts for hazelnuts or pistachios for a different flavor profile.
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage.
Who Loves These Cookies?
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are loved by:
- Holiday Bakers: Perfect for festive cookie swaps.
- Nut Lovers: The chopped nuts add texture and flavor.
- Sweet Tooths: The powdered sugar coating satisfies dessert cravings.
- Kids: Their fun, snowball-like appearance makes them a hit with children.
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a timeless treat that combines tradition with a touch of sweetness. Easy to make and delightful to eat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or simply indulging in a cozy dessert, their charm and flavor never fail to impress. Try this recipe today and watch them disappear from the cookie tray!