If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines simplicity with a melt-in-your-mouth experience, look no further than Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs. These delectable cookies are not only easy to make but also a joy to eat, making them perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. The use of sweetened condensed milk lends these cookies a rich, creamy texture that is simply irresistible. With a light dusting of powdered sugar, they resemble little snowballs, inviting you to take a bite. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress.
Tools and Equipment
Before you dive into making these scrumptious snowballs, it’s essential to gather the right tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Rolling pin (optional)
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful snowballs:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Unsalted butter provides the rich base for these cookies, ensuring a smooth texture and buttery flavor.
Sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and moisture, making the cookies soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
All-purpose flour acts as the main structure for the cookies, creating that perfect dough consistency.
Powdered sugar is used both in the dough and for rolling, offering a sweet, snowy finish that enhances the overall look and taste.
Vanilla extract brings a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Preparation Steps
Now that you have all your tools and ingredients ready, let’s prepare the dough for your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for the best results.
- Gradually stir in the flour, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until a dough forms. Don’t overmix; just combine until everything is well incorporated.
- Cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
With your dough ready, it’s time to roll and bake these delightful snowballs.
- Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Make sure they are uniform in size for even baking.
- Place the rolled balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; you want them to remain pale and not brown too much on top.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. This will help them firm up a bit.
- Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar until completely coated. Be generous; the powdered sugar adds to the sweetness and visual appeal!
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are a delightful treat, but like any dessert, they should be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value:
- A typical serving (2 cookies) contains approximately 200 calories.
- Each cookie has about 10 grams of fat, primarily from the butter.
- The cookies also contain carbohydrates from the flour and sugar, providing a quick energy boost.
Health Benefits: While these cookies are indulgent, they can be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed occasionally. The use of sweetened condensed milk adds calcium and protein to the mix, making them a slightly more nutritious option compared to other cookies.
Common Mistakes and Tips to Perfect the Recipe
To ensure your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs turn out perfectly every time, watch out for these common mistakes:
- Using cold butter: Always use softened butter to achieve a creamy texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps with rolling and enhances texture.
- Not using parchment paper: This can lead to sticking and uneven baking.
Advanced Tips:
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for an extra crunch.
- Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, for unique flavors.
- Try rolling the cookies in different toppings, like shredded coconut or crushed nuts, for a fun twist.
Storage, Serving, and Reheating Tips
Once you’ve made your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their delightful texture and flavor:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- To serve, simply dust with additional powdered sugar if desired. This will freshen them up and enhance their appearance!
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to reheat them, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven for a couple of minutes to bring back their soft texture.
FAQs and Recipe Variations
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but if using salted butter, you may want to omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.
Can I substitute the sweetened condensed milk?
You can try using evaporated milk mixed with a sweetener, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
What can I use instead of powdered sugar?
You can use granulated sugar, but it won’t provide the same powdery finish. Consider blending granulated sugar to create powdered sugar if you have a blender.
Recipe Variations:
- Chocolate Snowballs: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Nutty Snowballs: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Spiced Snowballs: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are not just cookies; they are little bites of joy that bring warmth and happiness to any occasion. Their creamy texture and sugary coating make them a delightful treat for both kids and adults. Whether you serve them at a holiday gathering or enjoy them with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and indulge in these sweet treats. You deserve a little sweetness in your life!