Soft, buttery, and delicately sweet, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are the ultimate cozy dessert for winter baking and festive celebrations. These tender cookies practically melt in your mouth, thanks to rich butter and creamy condensed milk, then finish with a snowy coating of powdered sugar. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, this foolproof cookie recipe is perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, or a simple sweet craving any day of the week.

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Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 can sweetened condensed milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup confectioner’s sugar, for dusting

Instructions For Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream the Butter
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and fluffy.
Add Condensed Milk
Slowly mix in the sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated.
Form the Dough
Sift in the flour and baking powder. Mix gently until a soft, cohesive dough forms.
Shape the Cookies
Roll small portions of dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
Dust with Sugar
Let cookies cool slightly, then generously dust with confectioner’s sugar.

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Pro Tips

Use room-temperature butter for a smoother dough and lighter texture.
Avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft and tender.
Chill the dough for 20–30 minutes if it feels too soft.
Dust cookies while warm so the sugar adheres evenly.

Why This Recipe Works

Sweetened condensed milk adds moisture and natural sweetness
Simple ingredients ensure consistent results every time
No eggs required, making the texture extra tender
Perfect balance of richness and lightness

Substitutions & Variations

Nutty Snowballs: Add chopped pecans or walnuts
Coconut Version: Mix in shredded coconut
Chocolate Twist: Fold in mini chocolate chips
Citrus Flavor: Add lemon or orange zest for brightness

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead

Prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.

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Storage

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days
Refrigerate for longer freshness

Freezing

Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months
Separate layers with parchment paper

Reheating

Thaw at room temperature
Warm briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired

Serving Ideas For Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea
Add to a holiday cookie platter
Serve alongside vanilla ice cream
Gift in festive cookie tins

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: 100
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 50mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace sweetened condensed milk?

It’s best not to—this ingredient gives the cookies their signature texture and sweetness.

Do these cookies spread while baking?

Very little. They keep their round, snowball shape.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

Are these good for holidays?

Absolutely. Their snowy appearance makes them ideal for festive gatherings.

These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are proof that simple recipes can deliver incredible flavor. Soft, rich, and irresistibly sweet, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite for holidays and everyday treats alike. Bake a batch once, and they’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your cookie rotation.