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These mouthwatering no-bake snowballs blend the sweetness of condensed milk with buttery goodness to make treats that dissolve on your tongue. They're fantastic for holiday gifts or whenever you need a speedy sweet treat - these little bites of delight need minimal work but make a big impression.
We had our kitchen filled with laughter last Christmas Eve as my kids helped coat these snowballs in powdered sugar. Watching them get excited about making "real snowballs" they could actually eat turned this into a family tradition right away.
Core Components - The Main Ingredients
- Butter: Needs to be just right for smoothest results - press it with your finger to check softness
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: The star ingredient giving these treats their unique flavor and texture
- All-Purpose Flour: Use the spoon-then-level trick for best measuring
- Baking Powder: Gives that perfect bite even without using the oven
- Confectioners' Sugar: Creates that beautiful snowy finish
Crafting Your Snowy Treats
- Step 1 - Set Up Your Area:
- Make space on your counter and have all ingredients warmed to room temp. Put parchment on your baking sheets. Keep extra confectioners' sugar nearby for coating.
- Step 2 - Mix The Foundation:
- Whip the soft butter until it's airy and light - take your time here. Slowly pour in condensed milk while you mix. Don't forget to scrape the bowl often for even blending.
- Step 3 - Build The Mixture:
- Mix flour and baking powder in a separate bowl. Add the dry stuff bit by bit to the wet mix. Stir until just blended - don't mix too much.
- Step 4 - Form And Finish:
- Use the same scoop size for all balls to make them even. Make sure to chill the formed balls well before adding sugar. Roll them carefully in confectioners' sugar for complete coverage.
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I've saved many last-minute holiday parties with these snowballs. They're so simple yet fancy that guests can't help but be impressed.
Tasty Twists and Smart Serving Ideas
I've found they make wonderful presents when packed in cute boxes lined with tissue paper. They hold their shape well during transport too.
In hot weather, I add some lemon zest and coat them in citrus sugar for a cool twist that's always a hit at outdoor gatherings.
These are my go-to for school fundraisers and bake sales - they're different enough to catch attention but familiar enough that everyone wants to try them.
My kitchen has seen countless versions of this basic recipe, from ones rolled in coconut for a tropical feel to fancy ones dipped in melted chocolate.
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After making these snowballs for years, they've become more than just food - they're a reminder that the simplest things often bring the greatest happiness. Whether they're served at a fancy holiday dinner or tucked into a lunchbox as a surprise, they always bring smiles to faces.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes sweetened condensed milk good for cookies?
- It gives the cookies a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and boosts the sweetness.
- → Can I try other flavors in this recipe?
- Definitely, try up to 2 teaspoons of extract or mix in a cup of extras like nuts or chocolate.
- → Why bake at a gentle temperature?
- Lower heat ensures even cooking and helps the cookies stay a pretty golden color.
- → What's the best way to keep them fresh?
- Seal them in a container at room temp; they'll stay yummy up to 5 days.
- → Why let them rest on the tray?
- That short rest stops them from falling apart when you move them off the pan.