Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Cream the Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes to incorporate air and ensure a smooth base.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, beating for 2 minutes until fully combined to create a creamy batter. If using any flavor extracts (not included here), add up to 2 teaspoons at this stage.
- Scrape and Mix: Scrape down the sides of the bowl thoroughly and beat the mixture for another 1-2 minutes to achieve a smooth and even consistency.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour and baking powder to the wet mixture. Beat on low speed just until incorporated to avoid overmixing, ensuring a tender crumb. Optionally, fold in up to 1 cup of mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit here (not included in this recipe).
- Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into evenly sized mounds. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C). Bake the cookies for 12 minutes until set but not browned, maintaining their tender texture.
- Cool on the Pan: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm slightly before handling.
- Transfer and Dust: Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack. Use a sifter to generously dust them with confectioners’ sugar to create the classic snowball appearance.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the wire rack before serving or storing, ensuring the sugar sets nicely and the texture firms up properly.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature to blend easily with the condensed milk.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding flour to keep the cookies tender and light.
- Optionally add flavor extracts like vanilla or almond up to 2 teaspoons to customize flavor.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- These cookies freeze well; wrap tightly and thaw before dusting with sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian