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These scrumptious no-bake snowballs mix the sweetness of condensed milk with creamy butter for treats that dissolve right in your mouth. They're fantastic for holiday gifts or whenever you want a speedy sweet snack - these little goodies come together quickly but leave a lasting impression.
On Christmas Eve last year, my kids filled the kitchen with laughter while rolling these snowballs in powdered sugar. Watching them delight in making "actual snowballs" they could eat turned this simple treat into a family tradition overnight.
Main Components - Star Ingredients
- Butter: Needs to be properly softened for ultimate creaminess - it should leave a slight indent when you press it
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: The core ingredient that gives both sweetness and binds everything together
- All-Purpose Flour: Spoon into measuring cup and level off for best results
- Baking Powder: Gives the right texture without any actual baking
- Confectioners' Sugar: Creates that beautiful snowy outer layer
Crafting Your Snowy Treats
- Step 1 - Set Up Your Area:
- Make room on your counter and have all ingredients at room temp. Put parchment on your baking sheets. Keep extra confectioners' sugar handy for coating.
- Step 2 - Mix The Foundation:
- Whip the soft butter until it's fluffy and light - take your time here. Slowly pour in condensed milk while you mix. Clean the sides of the bowl often for better 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 mixture. Stir until just combined - don't overmix.
- Step 4 - Form And Finish:
- Use the same scoop size for all balls. Cool the shaped balls fully before adding sugar. Roll them carefully in confectioners' sugar for complete coverage.
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I've saved countless last-minute holiday parties with these snowballs. They're so simple yet look so fancy that guests always ask for the recipe.
Tasty Twists and Ways to Serve
I've found they make wonderful presents, especially wrapped in cute boxes with tissue paper. They stay firm so they travel without crumbling.
In warmer months, I often throw in 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 treats for school fundraisers - they're different enough to grab attention but familiar enough that everyone wants to try them.
This simple recipe has grown into so many versions in my home, from tropical ones rolled in coconut to fancy ones dipped in melted chocolate.
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After making these snowballs for so many years, they've become more than just food - they're a reminder that the simplest things often bring the most happiness. Whether they're served at a fancy holiday dinner or tucked into a lunchbox as a surprise, they always make people smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s the purpose of condensed milk in these treats?
- It makes them soft, rich, and adds a nice touch of sweetness.
- → Can I change the flavors in these?
- Sure! Add up to 2 teaspoons of extract or toss in 1 cup of mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
- → Why use a lower baking temp?
- Cooking at 320°F keeps the cookies light-colored and ensures they bake evenly.
- → What’s the best way to store them?
- Keep them fresh by storing in an airtight container at room temp for up to 5 days.
- → Why let them cool on the tray?
- Letting them rest for 5 minutes helps them set so they don’t fall apart.