Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

Introduction

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are delightful treats that melt in your mouth with every bite. These cookies are perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings. Made with a handful of simple ingredients, these cookies are easy to prepare and offer a burst of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

History of Snowball Cookies

The origins of Snowball Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Mexican Wedding Cookies, can be traced back to Eastern Europe. These cookies have been enjoyed for generations, with each culture adding its own unique twist to the traditional recipe. The name “Snowball” comes from their round shape and coating of powdered sugar, resembling small snowballs. These cookies have become a staple in holiday baking traditions around the world, loved for their simplicity and irresistible taste.

Key Ingredients

To make these delectable Snowball Cookies, you will need basic baking ingredients such as flour, butter, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and chopped nuts. The sweetened condensed milk adds a rich, creamy texture to the cookies, while the nuts provide a satisfying crunch in every bite. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these heavenly treats to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

What Tools You’ll Need

Essential Tools for Baking Preparation

– Mixing Bowls: To combine ingredients smoothly, you’ll need various-sized mixing bowls.
– Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer helps in evenly blending the dough.
– Baking Sheet: For baking the cookies, using a standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper is essential.
– Cookie Scoop: To form uniform cookie dough balls, a cookie scoop is handy.
– Cooling Rack: After baking, transfer the cookies to a cooling rack for them to cool properly.
– Oven: Preheat your oven to the required temperature before baking.
– Spatula: Use a spatula to gently lift the cookies off the baking sheet.

Cooking Utensils for Rolling and Finishing

– Powdered Sugar Shaker: To dust the cookies with powdered sugar, have a shaker ready.
– Medium Saucepan: You’ll need a pan to heat the sweetened condensed milk.
– Whisk: Stir the milk continuously with a whisk while heating it in the saucepan.
– Plate or Bowl: For rolling the cookies in powdered sugar, prepare a plate or bowl.
– Wax Paper: Line the plate with wax paper to prevent sticking when rolling the cookies.
– Airtight Container: Store the finished cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Ingredients with Detailed Measurements

Dry Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup desiccated coconut

Mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and desiccated coconut in a bowl until well combined.

Wet Ingredients

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream the softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl, then add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Combine the dry and wet ingredients to form a soft dough. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and slightly golden.

Enjoy these delightful Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies with a glass of milk or a hot cup of tea.

Instructions

To make the delicious Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies, follow these simple steps:

Mixing the Ingredients

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter, 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until creamy.

3. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until a smooth dough forms.

Forming and Baking the Cookies

1. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls using your hands.

2. Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.

3. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.

4. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Once cooled, you can dust the cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Nutrition Score

Nutritional Information

– Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are delicious treats, but they are not the healthiest option due to their high sugar and fat content. Here is a breakdown of the key nutritional components:
– Serving Size: 1 cookie
– Calories: 120
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Cholesterol: 20mg
– Sodium: 45mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 13g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 1g

Health Considerations

– These cookies are relatively high in calories, saturated fat, and sugar while being low in protein and fiber.
– Consuming them in moderation can be part of a balanced diet, but excessive intake may contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
– To make them slightly healthier, consider reducing the sugar content or incorporating whole wheat flour for added fiber.
– Pairing a single cookie with a source of protein or fiber can help balance out the overall meal or snack for better nutrition.
– Remember, indulging in occasional treats is fine, but it’s essential to maintain overall dietary balance for optimal health.

Serving & Storage

Serving Suggestions

– Enjoy these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack or dessert.
– Serve them at holiday gatherings, potlucks, or bake sales for a crowd-pleasing treat.
– Pair them with vanilla ice cream for a simple but satisfying dessert option.
– As a festive touch, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.

Storage Tips

– Store the Snowball Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
– For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
– To freeze the cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to three months.
– When ready to enjoy, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their freshness.

Variations

Chocolate Coated Snowball Cookies

• After the snowball cookies have cooled, melt your preferred chocolate – dark, milk, or white.
• Dip each cookie halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
• Place the cookies on a parchment-lined tray and let the chocolate set before serving.

Spiced Snowball Cookies

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the cookie dough for a warm, fragrant twist.
• Optionally, roll the finished cookies in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an extra layer of flavor.
• These spiced snowball cookies are perfect for the holiday season or cozy winter nights.

By exploring these variations, you can elevate the classic Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies to suit different tastes and occasions. Whether you prefer the chocolate-coated version for a richer treat or the spiced variation for a comforting flavor profile, these options provide versatility to the traditional recipe. Feel free to experiment further by incorporating nuts, citrus zest, or other flavorings to customize the snowball cookies to your preference.

FAQs on Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

How to Store Snowball Cookies Properly?

– You can store snowball cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
– For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
– These cookies also freeze well! Simply place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.

Can I Substitute Sweetened Condensed Milk in the Recipe?

– While sweetened condensed milk adds richness and flavor to these cookies, you can substitute it with an equal amount of heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
– Keep in mind that using a different substitute may slightly alter the taste and texture of the cookies.

Whether you need storage tips or ingredient substitutions, these FAQs aim to provide you with the essential information for making and enjoying your sweetened condensed milk snowball cookies.

Conclusion

The Magic of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies

The Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the rich sweetness of condensed milk with the comforting crunch of pecans. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack. With a simple recipe that anyone can follow and a heavenly taste that will have everyone asking for more, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. The process of making these cookies is not only easy but also a fun activity that you can enjoy with your loved ones.

A Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing Treat

These snowball cookies are versatile and can be customized to suit various preferences. Whether you prefer a more pronounced nutty flavor by toasting the pecans beforehand or a sweeter touch by rolling the cookies in powdered sugar multiple times, the possibilities are endless. Their white, snow-like appearance makes them visually appealing for different occasions, from winter celebrations to summer parties. These cookies tend to disappear quickly, so making a double batch might be a wise decision to ensure there are plenty to go around. Share them as gifts, bring them to potlucks, or simply indulge in them at home; Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that will always put a smile on everyone’s face.

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