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I discovered these magical no-bake Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs during one of my late-night kitchen experiments. The combination of pantry basics somehow transforms into the most heavenly winter treats. After sharing them with my family they became an instant hit and now my kids beg me to make them whenever the holiday season rolls around.
Why These Snowballs Are A Game Changer
Let me tell you why I'm obsessed with these treats. As a busy mom running a food blog I'm always looking for quick holiday recipes that don't require turning on the oven. These snowballs are my secret weapon during the hectic holiday season. The creamy sweetened condensed milk mixed with coconut creates this incredible melt-in-your-mouth texture that has my readers coming back for more.
What You'll Need From Your Kitchen
- Butter: Make sure it's really soft I usually leave mine out overnight.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This magical ingredient makes everything creamy and rich.
- All-Purpose Flour: Just your regular flour works perfectly here.
- Baking Powder: A tiny bit gives these treats their perfect texture.
- Confectioner's Sugar: I always keep extra for that snowy finish.
Let's Make Some Snowballs
- Start with the Butter
- Beat that softened butter until it looks like whipped cream this usually takes me about 3 minutes.
- Add the Sweet Stuff
- Pour in your sweetened condensed milk and keep mixing. Sometimes I add a splash of vanilla here it's amazing.
- Keep It Smooth
- Scrape down your bowl I don't want you missing any of that goodness.
- Mix in Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add flour and baking powder. If you're feeling fancy toss in some chocolate chips.
- Shape Those Snowballs
- My cookie scoop is perfect for this keeping everything even.
- Time to Bake
- Pop them in at 320°F they'll need about 12 minutes.
- Let Them Rest
- Five minutes on the pan is crucial trust me on this.
- Make It Snow
- Dust them generously with sugar this is my favorite part.
- Final Touch
- Let them cool completely before storing but good luck keeping everyone away.
Keeping Your Snowballs Fresh
I've learned that an airtight container is your best friend here. These little treats stay perfect in the fridge for a week but they never last that long in my house. If you're planning ahead pop them in the freezer they'll keep for three months. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper I learned that one the hard way.
Mix It Up
After countless batches I've discovered some amazing variations. My nut-allergic niece loves them with graham cracker crumbs instead of coconut. A dash of almond extract takes them to another level and my chocolate-loving husband swears by the cocoa-dusted version. Sometimes I'll even sneak in some cinnamon during the holidays.
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Making Them Dairy-Free
My vegan friend Sarah inspired me to create a dairy-free version. Using dairy-free condensed milk and coconut oil works beautifully. You honestly can't tell the difference and now everyone can enjoy them at our holiday gatherings.
Holiday Magic
During Christmas I love getting creative with these. Rolling them in crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles makes them look so festive. My kids go crazy for the ones with rainbow sprinkles and honestly they're just as fun to make as they are to eat.
Perfect Party Treats
These have saved me at countless holiday parties. Since there's no baking involved I can whip them up even when my oven is full of other goodies. They're always the first to disappear from the dessert table and I always come home with an empty plate.
Creating Sweet Memories
Every time I make these snowballs I think about how they've become part of our family traditions. My daughter loves helping roll them in sugar and my son's face lights up when he sees them on the counter. They're more than just treats they're little bites of joy.
Quick and Easy Magic
The best part about these snowballs is how simple they are to make. On busy December evenings when I'm juggling gift wrapping and holiday prep I can still pull these together in no time. They're my go-to when I need something sweet without the fuss.
Fun for Everyone
My kitchen becomes a happy mess when we make these together. The kids love rolling the balls and covering themselves in powdered sugar. Even my husband who claims he doesn't bake gets in on the fun. It's become our favorite weekend activity during the holiday season.
The Perfect Gift
I started gifting these snowballs to neighbors and friends after they kept asking for the recipe. Packed in pretty holiday tins with a ribbon they make the sweetest homemade presents. My friend Lisa even serves them at her annual Christmas tea party now.
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Last-Minute Lifesaver
These snowballs have saved me countless times when unexpected guests drop by. I can quickly put them together while catching up with friends and they're ready to serve in no time. Plus my kitchen smells amazing while making them.
Year-Round Goodness
While everyone associates these with winter I make them all year round. They're perfect for summer parties too just swap the holiday sprinkles for colorful ones. They're so versatile you'll find yourself craving them in every season.
Dress Them Up
When I'm feeling fancy I'll add a touch of edible gold dust or special decorations. It's amazing how a simple snowball can look so elegant. They've even made appearances at wedding showers and fancy holiday parties.
Perfect Pairings
There's nothing better than these snowballs with my morning coffee. The sweetness pairs perfectly with a strong brew. When friends come over for afternoon tea they always ask if I've made a batch they're that addictive.
Simple Joy
I love how something so simple can bring such happiness. Every time I make these snowballs I'm reminded that the best recipes don't need to be complicated. Their sweet coconutty goodness never fails to make people smile.
Our Family Tradition
These snowballs have become such a big part of our family celebrations. My kids know the holidays are coming when they smell them in the kitchen. Even my mother-in-law who's particular about desserts asks for the recipe she loves them that much.
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Sweet Success
I'm so excited to share this recipe with you. After years of making these snowballs they never get old. Each batch brings new joy and creates sweet memories. Give them a try in your kitchen I promise they'll become a favorite in your home too.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months before adding the powdered sugar coating. Thaw completely and dust with sugar before serving.
- → Why did my cookies spread too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough if it feels too soft. The low baking temperature helps prevent spreading.
- → Can I add different flavors?
You can add up to 2 teaspoons of extract like vanilla, almond, or peppermint. You can also fold in mix-ins like mini chocolate chips or finely chopped nuts.
- → How do I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You may need to dust them with additional powdered sugar before serving.
- → Why are my cookies too crumbly?
Be careful not to overbake them as this can make them dry. They should be just set but not browned, and will firm up as they cool.
Conclusion
These delightful snowball cookies are a perfect treat, combining the rich flavor of sweetened condensed milk with a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Easy to prepare and beautifully coated in powdered sugar, they're an ideal dessert for any occasion.