Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies Recipe
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, are a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treat that everyone will adore. These cookies are a perfect blend of buttery goodness and a subtle sweetness from the condensed milk, making them a holiday favorite or a simple indulgence any time of the year. The rich, crumbly texture of these cookies comes from the use of sweetened condensed milk, which adds a smooth sweetness and helps bind the dough without the need for eggs. Whether you’re preparing them for a festive occasion or just for a cozy afternoon snack, these snowball cookies are sure to be a hit. They are easy to make, require only a few ingredients, and offer a buttery, nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Image Prompt: “A festive plate of snowball cookies dusted with powdered sugar, placed on a rustic wooden table with holiday decorations in the background.”
Ingredients List
To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The use of sweetened condensed milk gives these cookies their unique texture and sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
These ingredients are easy to find and make this recipe simple and approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
Preparing the Dough
Start by creaming the softened butter in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract to the bowl, continuing to mix until the ingredients are well combined. Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. If desired, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The dough should be smooth and slightly firm, perfect for shaping into balls. Refrigerate the dough for about 15 minutes if it feels too sticky.
Shaping the Cookies
Once the dough is ready, shape it into small, uniform balls using about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie. Roll them gently between your palms to ensure a smooth and even shape. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a small gap between each cookie. Since these cookies don’t spread much during baking, you can fit more on a single sheet without worrying about overcrowding.
Baking the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Be cautious not to overbake, as the cookies are meant to remain soft and delicate. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool slightly before handling them. The baking process fills the kitchen with a warm, nutty aroma that signals the goodness to come.
Dusting with Powdered Sugar
While the cookies are still warm, roll each one gently in powdered sugar. The warmth of the cookies helps the sugar stick, creating that signature snowy coating. For an extra snowy effect, let the cookies cool completely and then dust them again with powdered sugar. This step not only adds sweetness but also gives the cookies their festive, wintery appearance.
Cooling the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is essential to help the cookies firm up and maintain their shape. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed. The texture at this stage is crumbly yet melt-in-your-mouth tender, a hallmark of perfectly baked snowball cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a perfect addition to any celebration or gathering. Arrange them on a decorative platter for a holiday dessert table, or pack them in tins as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or even hot cocoa to complement their delicate flavor. Their elegant simplicity makes them a crowd-pleaser at any event.
Storing the Cookies
To maintain freshness, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature and dust with a fresh layer of powdered sugar before serving. This makes them a convenient treat for busy schedules, allowing you to enjoy them whenever the craving strikes.
Customizing the Recipe
These cookies are versatile and can be tailored to suit your tastes. Substitute pecans with almonds or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor, or add a hint of ground cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice note. You can also experiment with dipping the finished cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent twist. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a great base for your creativity.
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a timeless classic that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday tradition, a special occasion, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, these cookies are always a crowd-pleaser. With their tender crumb, nutty undertones, and snowy sugar coating, they bring warmth and joy to every bite. So, gather your ingredients and share these delightful treats with your loved ones.
