A gust of winter market air, a tuk‑tuk honking two streets down, and a vendor handing you a tiny white jewel — that’s how these snowballs taste in my head: global, glinting, and impossible to resist. Like a street-food detour through festive alleys, they’re buttery, sweet, and shockingly simple. If you love condensed-milk magic, you’ll want a side of sweetened condensed milk frosting vibes with every bite.
Why make this recipe
These snowballs are the edible equivalent of finding a secret slice of winter in a tropical night bazaar — no oven, minimal fuss, and maximum nostalgia. They’re perfect for last-minute gifts, potlucks, or anytime you want a showstopper that reads elegant but behaves like street-food mischief.
How to make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups coconut flakes (optional for coating)
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well until the dough-like consistency forms.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls.
- If desired, roll the balls in coconut flakes for coating.
- Place the snowballs on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate until firm.
- Enjoy your no-bake winter wonderland treats!
How to serve Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Serve them chilled on a vibrant tray — think hand-painted ceramics or a banana leaf for that street‑market energy. Scatter pomegranate seeds or edible gold dust for drama, pair with strong coffee or spiced chai, and let each guest take a little globe of sweetness with their fingers.
How to store Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Keep them chilled in an airtight container. They’ll stay great for up to 1 week in the fridge; for longer love, freeze on a tray then transfer to a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving to keep the texture perfect.
Tips to make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
- Use room-temperature butter for the creamiest blend — cold butter fights, warm butter surrenders.
- If the dough feels sticky, dust your hands with powdered sugar to get rounder, cleaner balls.
- For a glossy finish, briefly roll in finely chopped toasted almonds before the coconut stage.
- Curious about swapping ingredients in other recipes? Try experimenting with dairy swaps and see how textures change — there’s a great primer on whether you can replace milk with yogurt in pancakes that’ll feed your curiosity.
Variations (if any)
- Chocolate-dipped: half-dip chilled balls in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle sea salt.
- Citrus-zest: add 1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright, tropical twist.
- Nutty roll: use crushed pistachios or toasted sesame for a Middle Eastern vibe.
- Vegan tweak: replace butter with a firm coconut-based block and use a vegan sweetened condensed milk alternative.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Absolutely — make them up to a week in advance and keep refrigerated, or freeze for up to a month and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
A: You can gently simmer whole milk and sugar until reduced, but it’s a labor of love. For speed, use a quality store-bought can — it’s the magic binder.
Q: Are they suitable for kids and travel lunches?
A: Yes — they’re portable, mess-light, and adored by kids. Pack them chilled in an insulated box for best results.
Q: Can I add cocoa to make chocolate snowballs?
A: Mix 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa into the powdered sugar before combining; you may need a touch more sweetened condensed milk for balance.
Q: Why are mine grainy sometimes?
A: Graininess usually comes from powdered sugar absorbing moisture unevenly; sift your powdered sugar and ensure butter is fully creamed first.
Conclusion
If you want a deeper dive into similar no‑bake delights, check out this take on Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs – Lord Byron’s Kitchen for an alternate glaze and presentation. For another home-style version with helpful photos and tips, see Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs – That Oven Feelin.
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well until a dough-like consistency forms.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls.
- If desired, roll the balls in coconut flakes for coating.
- Place the snowballs on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate until firm.