Introduction:
Snowball cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, are a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treat. The addition of sweetened condensed milk gives them a rich and moist texture, making these cookies extra indulgent. These cookies are perfect for holiday baking or any occasion when you’re craving something sweet and festive.
Ingredients and Quantities:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Tips for Success:
- Chill the dough: After mixing the dough, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Coat generously in powdered sugar: After baking, roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm for the perfect sweet finish.
- Customize the nuts: If you prefer other nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, feel free to substitute them for a different twist.
- Don’t overbake: These cookies should remain pale, so be careful not to overbake them. They are done when the edges just begin to brown.
How to Make and Instructions:
- Prepare the dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk together until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract, salt, and powdered sugar, and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just incorporated. If you’re using nuts, fold them in at this stage.
- Shape the cookies:
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are just starting to turn golden at the edges.
- Coat in powdered sugar:
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly for a few minutes before rolling them in powdered sugar. If you want an extra layer of sweetness, roll them again once they’ve cooled completely.
Description:
These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball Cookies are rich, buttery, and slightly crumbly, with a wonderful balance of sweetness from the powdered sugar and the smooth richness of sweetened condensed milk. The nuts add a delightful crunch and texture, but they can be omitted or substituted for your favorite variety.
Conclusion and Recommendation:
These cookies are a perfect addition to your holiday baking or a treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. They’re simple to make, and the sweetened condensed milk gives them a unique softness that’s sure to melt in your mouth. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh, and be sure to share them—they’ll be gone before you know it!