Name: Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Softened Butter (Room temperature for easy mixing.); 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (Approximately 14 ounces.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 cup Confectioner’s Sugar (For dusting.)

Jump to Recipe

Who can resist biting into a melt-in-your-mouth cookie, rolled in snowy-white powdered sugar, and tasting a rich blend of buttery sweetness? If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat that’s both easy to whip up and always a hit, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies fit the bill. There’s something magical about their delicate texture and the way the sugar clings to your lips—it brings out the kid in everyone!

I first made these cookies during a last-minute holiday gathering, and they disappeared off the plate before I could even snap a photo! Their simplicity reminds me of another beloved recipe on this blog, my Classic Butter Thumbprints, but this snowball version delivers a new twist that’s rich, quick, and totally irresistible. Trust me, whether you’re baking with the kids or prepping for a cookie swap, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for every celebration. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!

What is Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies?

With a name like Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, you might be scratching your head and wondering: are these tiny snow globes you can eat? Or maybe an edible winter wonderland? Well, the answer is simpler—and sweeter—than that! These cookies get their name from being rolled in so much powdered sugar that they look just like fluffy little snowballs ready for a winter’s day. Their creamy base of sweetened condensed milk and buttery dough makes every bite a taste of comfort. Since, as they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” don’t wait for winter to try these—you’ll want to make them all year round!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The showstopper here is undoubtedly the texture: each bite is supremely tender and melt-in-your-mouth, with a delicate sweetness that never overwhelms. Making snowball cookies at home is budget-friendly, especially compared to artisanal bakery versions (if you can even find them for sale!). With just a handful of pantry staples and a single bowl, you can skip the additives and preservatives while still getting cookie perfection. And let’s not forget, the generous dusting of powdered sugar transforms this humble treat into a winter wonder. If you adore simple classics like my Easy Shortbread Cookies, get ready—these snowballs are coming for the top spot on your favorites list! There’s nothing left but to try them yourself and see why every bite is worth the (tiny) mess.

How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Quick Overview

Say goodbye to complicated cookie recipes—this one’s so easy, you can have warm, homemade treats on your table in under 30 minutes! The secret? Using sweetened condensed milk for both sweetness and incredible softness, paired with classic ingredients for a melt-in-the-mouth texture. From start to finish, including baking time, you’re looking at about a half-hour commitment and a reward of irresistible, snowy cookies that everyone will love.

A stack of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies dusted with powdered sugar on a festive plate

Ingredients

1 cup softened butter

1 can (approximately 14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 cup confectioner’s sugar (powdered sugar), for dusting

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy—about 2 minutes.
Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and mix until the two are fully combined. This mixture should look creamy and smooth.
Sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Stir gently with a spatula or slow electric mixer until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want the cookies to stay tender.
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are just turning golden but the tops remain pale—do not overbake!
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then roll each one in confectioner’s sugar while they’re still slightly warm to ensure the sugar sticks.
For a classic snowball effect, roll the cookies in sugar a second time once they have cooled completely.

What to Serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies With

Looking to build the perfect cookie platter? These snowball cookies go hand in hand with a mug of hot cocoa, classic chai tea, or even a gentle spiced apple cider. For a party spread, pair them with chocolate-dipped pretzels, nutty biscotti, or my favorite Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies for a balance of flavors and textures. Don’t forget, they look stunning nestled among red berries or candied citrus on a dessert tray—but they’re just as tasty on their own, next to your favorite cozy drink!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Snowball Cookies

Always use room-temperature butter so your dough creams easily for the most tender cookie.
Swap in gluten-free flour for an allergy-friendly twist, or add finely chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) for added crunch.
Don’t skip the double sugar roll: the first layer melts in, while the second creates that classic snowball look.
Watch your baking time carefully—overbaked cookies will lose their melt-in-your-mouth texture.
For a twist, add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the dough, or try rolling the cookies in flavored powdered sugars.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Snowball cookies are wonderfully make-ahead friendly. Once cooled and sugared, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week—they stay soft! For longer storage, layer them in a freezer-safe box with parchment between the layers and freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, simply let them come to room temperature (no reheating required), then give them a fresh roll in powdered sugar to revive that snow-kissed look. If they lose their texture, a couple of seconds in the microwave will work wonders!

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but butter gives the richest flavor and best structure. Margarine works in a pinch, but expect slightly different texture.

Do I need to chill the dough?
Nope! Unlike many cookies, there’s no need to chill the dough—you can roll and bake right away.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Finely chopped pecans or walnuts are a classic addition, and mini chocolate chips add a fun twist.

My cookies spread too much during baking—what happened?
Double-check your flour measurement. Too little flour or too soft butter can cause excess spreading. Try chilling the dough for 15 minutes if this happens.

How do I get the sugar to really stick?
Roll the cookies in confectioner’s sugar while they’re still slightly warm, then again when cooled for the perfect coating.

Conclusion

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies may look dainty and delicate, but they pack a flavorful, buttery punch that is impossible to resist. With their ultra-simple prep, low cost, and crowd-pleasing charm, they’re sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen—especially when you want an easy dessert that looks as dreamy as it tastes. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just a treat for yourself, these cookies are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes bring the most joy. Don’t forget to check out other classic cookie ideas right here—happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with sweet, snowy treats!