Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs: A No-Bake Delight for Every Occasion
Sweetened condensed milk snowballs are a bite-sized, no-bake treat that combines simplicity, flavor, and visual charm. These soft, chewy confections are made with just a handful of pantry staples, making them a quick and easy dessert option for busy days or impromptu celebrations. Their creamy sweetness, paired with a light, snowy coconut coating, makes them perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to elegant holiday spreads.
What Are Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs?
At their core, sweetened condensed milk snowballs are little balls of sweet, creamy goodness. The dough is made from sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla for extra flavor. Once mixed, the dough is shaped into balls and rolled in shredded coconut, creating a beautiful snowy appearance that gives the treat its name.
These no-bake snowballs are soft and tender, with a sweet, slightly nutty flavor from the coconut. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich taste make them a hit with kids and adults alike. Best of all, they require no baking, making them an ideal recipe for hot summer days or when you’re short on time.
A Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
One of the best things about sweetened condensed milk snowballs is their versatility. They’re a great addition to holiday dessert tables, adding a festive touch with their snowy appearance. They’re also perfect for potlucks, tea parties, or as a quick and satisfying after-dinner treat.
Beyond their visual appeal, these snowballs are endlessly customizable. You can adapt the recipe with your favorite flavor extracts, add-ins like chocolate chips or crushed nuts, or alternative coatings such as sprinkles or colored sugar. This makes them a great option for themed parties or personalized gifting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Baking Required: Perfect for when you want a sweet treat without turning on the oven.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Endless possibilities to add your own twist, whether it’s extra flavor, color, or texture.
- Kid-Friendly: Fun to make with little ones, who will love rolling the dough and coating the snowballs.
Sweetened condensed milk snowballs are more than just a dessert—they’re a conversation starter, a sweet bite of nostalgia, and a testament to how a simple recipe can bring so much joy. Whether you’re making them for the first time or revisiting a cherished tradition, these snowballs are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Main Ingredients
Sweetened condensed milk snowballs require just a few key ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful no-bake treat:
Sweetened Condensed Milk
- The star of the recipe, sweetened condensed milk provides the creamy sweetness that binds the ingredients together and gives the snowballs their signature flavor.
Shredded Coconut
- Finely shredded unsweetened or sweetened coconut adds texture and a light tropical flavor. You’ll also use extra coconut to coat the outside of the snowballs for a snowy appearance.
Powdered Sugar
- Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this helps to sweeten and firm up the mixture, ensuring the snowballs hold their shape.
Vanilla Extract
- A splash of vanilla extract enhances the flavor and adds a warm, aromatic note to the snowballs.
Tools You’ll Need
Preparing sweetened condensed milk snowballs is quick and easy, requiring just a few basic kitchen tools:
Mixing Bowl
- A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients into a cohesive dough.
Measuring Cups
- Precise measurements ensure the right balance of sweetness and texture in the snowballs.
Parchment Paper
- Line a tray or baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking as you form and chill the snowballs.
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to create a batch of sweetened condensed milk snowballs that are as delicious as they are simple to make. Let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions!
Mixing the Ingredients
The first step in making sweetened condensed milk snowballs is combining the ingredients to create the perfect dough for shaping.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Measure out:
- 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups of shredded coconut (plus extra for coating)
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
2. Combine the Base Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, pour the sweetened condensed milk.
- Add the shredded coconut and powdered sugar.
- Drizzle in the vanilla extract.
3. Mix Thoroughly
- Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until the ingredients are fully combined. The mixture should be thick and sticky but easy to handle.
- If the dough is too soft, add an extra 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to firm it up.
4. Taste and Adjust
- Optional: Taste a small amount of the mixture to adjust sweetness or add a splash of almond or coconut extract for extra flavor.
Shaping the Snowballs
Once the mixture is ready, it’s time to form the snowballs into their classic shape.
1. Prepare Your Workspace
- Line a tray or baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Place a small bowl of shredded coconut nearby for coating.
2. Shape the Dough
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture using a spoon or small cookie scoop.
- Roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball.
3. Coat the Snowballs
- Roll each ball in the shredded coconut, ensuring an even coating.
- Place the coated snowballs on the parchment-lined tray.
4. Repeat the Process
- Continue shaping and coating the snowballs until all the mixture is used.
- If the dough starts to stick to your hands, lightly dust them with powdered sugar.
Refrigerating and Serving
Chilling the snowballs is essential to set their texture and enhance their flavor.
1. Refrigerate the Snowballs
- Place the tray of snowballs in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This helps them firm up and develop their signature chewy texture.
- If you’re in a hurry, freeze them for 30 minutes instead.
2. Transfer for Storage
- Once chilled, transfer the snowballs to an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 1 month.
3. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the snowballs chilled or at room temperature. They’re perfect as a no-bake dessert for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
- For a festive presentation, arrange them on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
With these step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a batch of sweetened condensed milk snowballs that are easy to make and impossible to resist. Their soft, chewy texture and rich, coconutty flavor make them a standout treat for any occasion!
sure to be a hit, whether enjoyed at home or shared with loved ones!
Serving and Storing Tips
Sweetened condensed milk snowballs are easy to store, share, and serve, making them perfect for any occasion. Follow these tips to keep them fresh and creatively package them for gifting.
How to Keep Snowballs Fresh
1. Store in the Refrigerator
- Place snowballs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and texture.
- Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Freeze for Longer Storage
- Sweetened condensed milk snowballs can be frozen for up to 1 month.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
3. Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature
- While these treats are best served chilled for their chewy texture, they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours, making them perfect for parties or gatherings.
Creative Ways to Package for Gifting
Sweetened condensed milk snowballs make delightful edible gifts. Here’s how to package them beautifully:
1. Decorative Boxes
- Use festive boxes lined with parchment paper or cupcake liners to keep the snowballs in place. Tie the box with a ribbon for a polished look.
2. Cellophane Bags
- Place 4-6 snowballs in a clear cellophane bag and tie the top with a decorative twist tie or ribbon. Add a holiday-themed tag for a personal touch.
3. Mason Jars
- Stack snowballs in a mason jar, alternating layers with parchment paper. Decorate the lid with fabric or a sticker that includes the recipe name and a sweet message.
4. Themed Containers
- Use reusable tins or themed containers, especially during the holidays. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar before sealing to give the snowballs a snowy effect.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, unsweetened coconut works perfectly for this recipe. It adds a slightly less sweet flavor, which balances the condensed milk’s richness. You can also mix unsweetened and sweetened coconut for a customizable sweetness level.
How long do these snowballs last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the snowballs stay fresh for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 1 month.
Can I add food coloring to make them festive?
Absolutely! Add a few drops of food coloring to the mixture before shaping the snowballs. Green and red are great options for holiday-themed treats. You can also roll them in colored sugar or sprinkles for extra flair.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes, sweetened condensed milk snowballs are naturally gluten-free, as they contain no flour or gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure any additional coatings or mix-ins are certified gluten-free if needed.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
You can replace the powdered sugar with a low-calorie or sugar-free alternative like erythritol or powdered monk fruit sweetener. Adjust the amount based on the sweetness level of your substitute. Keep in mind that texture and flavor may vary slightly.
With these serving and storing tips, gifting ideas, and FAQs, your sweetened condensed milk snowballs will remain fresh, festive, and delicious—whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying them yourself!