Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs: A Delicious No-Bake Delight

Name: Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (softened) (Make sure it’s at room temperature.); 0.5 cup sweetened condensed milk (Look for a brand with a velvety consistency.); 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (You can crush your own or grab pre-made crumbs.); 1 cup shredded coconut (Unsweetened or sweetened works.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.); to taste cup powdered sugar (For rolling the snowballs.)

Have you ever taken a bite of something that instantly transported you back to your childhood? That warm feeling of nostalgia can often be found in the simplest of treats. For me, it’s the memory of my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip up a batch of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs every holiday season. These little bites of joy, rolled in powdered sugar and simply bursting with creamy coconut flavor, were a staple in our family. Their delightful sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture spun a web of comfort around every gathering, reminding me of all the love blended into each batch.

What makes these snowballs special is that they combine convenience with indulgence. Unlike other recipes that can get complex or overly rich, this one has just the right balance, getting sweetness from the sweetened condensed milk and creaminess from the butter. Plus, they’re so easy to make: no baking required! In a matter of minutes, you can whip these up and pop them in the fridge for later. Stick around, and I promise you’ll learn how to make these sweet little treasures that will soon become a beloved favorite in your home!

What Are Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs?

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs, often known as “Snowball Cookies,” have a delightful origin that ties back to various cultures celebrating winter festivities. They are traditionally made from simple pantry ingredients like butter, graham cracker crumbs, and, of course, sweetened condensed milk, giving them a unique signature flavor.

When you take that first bite, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich creaminess from the milk and a delightful crunch from the graham cracker crumbs. The texture is soft yet firm, making them fun to snack on, and they have that beautiful coconut flavor woven throughout. Unique in their simplicity, these snowballs are perfect for holiday gatherings, picnics, or any day that calls for a little treat. Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply need a comforting dessert, these sweet morsels fit the bill every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few compelling reasons why this Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball recipe should be at the top of your baking list:

No Baking Required: Perfect for those hot summer days when you want something sweet without cranking up the oven. Just mix, roll, and chill!
Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you can have these delightful treats ready in about 30 minutes, plus chilling time. Your friends and family will never believe how quickly you whipped them up!
Cost-Effective: With just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand, this recipe is light on the wallet. Why spend more on store-bought treats when you can make these at home?
Customizable to Your Taste: Feeling adventurous? Add a sprinkle of sea salt, a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla, or even a handful of chocolate chips! The options are endless.
Easy to Store: These sweet little balls of joy last for days in the fridge, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for gift-giving or gatherings. You won’t have to worry about them going stale quickly!

Ingredients

Here’s your shopping list for these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs. I always recommend using the best quality ingredients you can find to enhance the flavor. Here’s what you need:

1 cup butter (softened): Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming; I love using unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness.
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: Sweetened condensed milk is the star here. Look for a brand that has a velvety consistency—my favorite is Eagle Brand.
2 cups graham cracker crumbs: You can crush your own or grab a box of pre-made crumbs. I prefer making my own for a fresher taste!
1 cup shredded coconut: Unsweetened or sweetened works, but the unsweetened variety provides a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the milk.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Always use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Powdered sugar for rolling: This adds that signature “snowball” effect.

Prep Notes:

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best mixing.
If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, consider using light sweetened condensed milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs! Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof process.

Cream Together Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula until the mixture is smooth and well-combined (about 2-3 minutes). Make sure no lumps of butter remain!
Chef’s Tip: The mixture should be light and fluffy. If using a mixer, keep the speed on medium.
Add Dry Ingredients: Mix in 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup of shredded coconut, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The mixture will be thick, so use a spatula to really incorporate all the ingredients for about 2 more minutes.
Shape the Snowballs: Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round; a little rustic charm never hurt anyone!
Chef’s Tip: Using damp hands can help prevent the mixture from sticking while rolling.
Coat in Powdered Sugar: Pour some powdered sugar into a shallow bowl and coat each ball thoroughly, ensuring they are covered completely.
Chill and Serve: Place your snowballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. The chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Chef’s Tip: If you want extra chill, pop them in the freezer for 20-30 minutes.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Here’s how to ensure your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs turn out perfectly:

Storage: You can store these snowballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. If you want to freeze them, layer a piece of parchment paper between the snowballs and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months!
Make-Ahead: These snowballs are perfect for prepping ahead of time. Just roll them, coat in powdered sugar—no need to chill them until the day you plan to serve.
Troubleshooting: If the mixture feels too loose, add a bit more graham cracker crumbs until you reach the desired consistency. Too crumbly? Just add a small splash of sweetened condensed milk.
Flavor Fusion: To deepen the coconut flavor, try using coconut-flavored graham crackers!
Serving Suggestions: Serve these snowballs alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy experience.

Serving Suggestions

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are wonderfully versatile. Serve them at holiday gatherings, post-dinner dessert buffets, or alongside coffee during a cozy afternoon. For a festive touch, dust them with a sprinkle of coconut flakes on a beautiful platter or pair them with seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for a tart contrast. Their delightful sweetness complements a wide range of beverages, making them a perfect treat any time of year.

Variations & Substitutions

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations you can try with your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs:

Flavor Combinations: Mix in dried fruit like cherries or apricots for added tang and texture. Try adding finely chopped nuts for that extra crunch.
Dietary Restrictions: To make these gluten-free, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. For a vegan option, use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk condensed milk.
Seasonal Variations: Around the holidays, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to evoke that classic holiday flavor!

Nutrition & Storage Info

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: About 24 snowballs
Estimated Calories per Serving: 100-120 calories (depending on size)

Storage Instructions:

Room Temperature: Snowballs can sit out for up to 3 days in a cool place.
Fridge: 1 week sealed in an airtight container.
Freezer: Store for up to 2 months.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of milk?
- You can use evaporated milk, but it won’t be as sweet. The sweetened condensed milk adds a creaminess and sweetness that’s essential to the flavor.
Can I skip the coconut?
- Yes! If coconut isn’t your thing, just substitute it with more graham cracker crumbs or finely chopped nuts for a different twist.
How do I know when they are ready to serve?
- Once chilled for at least an hour, they should be firm to the touch. If they’re too soft, give them more time in the fridge.
Can I make them smaller or larger?
- Absolutely! Just adjust the servings accordingly, keeping in mind the chilling time may change based on the size.
What should I do if the snowballs are too sticky?
- It’s normal if they feel a little sticky. You can roll them in powdered sugar right after rolling them into balls to help with handling.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen snowballs?
- Simply place them in the fridge overnight, and they will be ready to enjoy!
Can I use flavored extracts instead of vanilla?
- Yes! Almond or coconut extract would provide a lovely twist to the flavor profile.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
- This recipe makes about 24 snowballs, but it can easily be doubled or halved depending on your needs.
Can I use cold butter?
- It’s best to use softened butter; cold butter won’t combine as smoothly and could lead to lumpiness.
Are Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs gluten-free?
- Traditional graham crackers contain gluten, but you can use gluten-free alternatives for a safe version!

Conclusion

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are not just a dessert; they’re a warm hug in cookie form. Their rich, creamy sweetness and nostalgic nature make them a special treat that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making them yourself—you might find them becoming a cherished family tradition, just like they did in mine! I’d love to hear your feedback or any twists you added to this classic recipe. Don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes on my blog, where the love for baking only gets sweeter!