Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are an easy and delicious no-bake dessert perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a quick and sweet treat. Made with sweetened condensed milk, coconut, and a few other simple ingredients, these snowballs are wonderfully chewy, sweet, and reminiscent of winter snowflakes. They’re perfect for gifting, holiday cookie exchanges, or just enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.
These snowballs are not only easy to prepare but also bring a festive touch to any occasion. Their delightful snow-like appearance, combined with the sweet flavor of condensed milk and the chewy texture of coconut, makes them a favorite among both children and adults. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for something simple to make, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are a fantastic choice that doesn’t require an oven or complicated ingredients.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is sticky but holds together. The consistency should be thick enough to form balls without falling apart.
- Form the Snowballs: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. It helps to lightly coat your hands with powdered sugar to prevent the mixture from sticking too much. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you go. The mixture should yield about 20-24 snowballs, depending on the size.
- Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the snowballs to firm up. This step is essential to help them hold their shape and to make them easier to handle when coating with powdered sugar.
- Coat in Powdered Sugar: Once chilled, roll each snowball in powdered sugar until fully coated. This gives them the classic “snowball” look and adds a touch of extra sweetness that contrasts well with the condensed milk and coconut.
- Serve: Serve the snowballs immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy. They are best served chilled and will maintain their shape well when cold.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Sticky Hands: If the mixture is too sticky to handle, lightly wet your hands or coat them with a bit of powdered sugar to make rolling easier. The powdered sugar also adds a protective layer that makes handling the snowballs more manageable.
- Chill Time: Be sure to chill the snowballs for at least an hour before coating in powdered sugar. This helps them hold their shape better and makes them less sticky.
- Storage: Store the snowballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- Texture: If you prefer a slightly less sweet version, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut. Just keep in mind that the sweetness of the condensed milk will be more pronounced without the extra sweetness from the coconut.
Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped Snowballs: Dip half of each snowball in melted chocolate for a decadent twist. After coating in powdered sugar, let the chocolate-dipped portion harden on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This variation adds a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet coconut.
- Add Nuts: Mix in 1/4 cup of finely chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for added texture and flavor. Nuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the soft chewiness of the coconut and condensed milk.
- Lemon Snowballs: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a citrusy variation. This adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the condensed milk.
- Holiday Sprinkles: For a festive touch, roll the snowballs in holiday-themed sprinkles after coating them in powdered sugar. This is perfect for Christmas or any other special celebration and makes them more visually appealing for kids.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut, but the snowballs will be less sweet. You may want to add an extra tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk or a bit more powdered sugar to balance the flavor. Unsweetened coconut will give the snowballs a slightly more subtle coconut flavor and reduce overall sweetness.
2. How do I store Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs?
Store the snowballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. These snowballs actually taste even better after a day or two as the flavors have time to meld together.
3. Can I make these snowballs vegan?
To make a vegan version, use a plant-based condensed milk substitute and unsweetened coconut. Be sure to use vegan powdered sugar as well. There are several plant-based condensed milks available that work perfectly in this recipe.
4. Can I add other flavorings?
Absolutely! You can add almond extract, coconut extract, or even a pinch of cinnamon to change up the flavor. Just be careful not to overpower the delicate coconut flavor. Almond extract, for instance, adds a wonderful nutty depth that pairs well with the coconut.
5. How do I prevent the snowballs from being too sticky?
If your snowballs are too sticky to roll, try chilling the mixture for 20-30 minutes before forming into balls. You can also dust your hands with powdered sugar or lightly grease them with a neutral oil to make handling easier.
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are a simple yet delightful no-bake treat that’s perfect for the holidays or any time you want a quick, sweet snack. With their chewy texture and sweet, coconutty flavor, these snowballs are sure to be a hit. Whether you make them for a holiday party, as a homemade gift, or just because, they’re easy to whip up and always delicious. Their versatility allows you to adapt them to different flavors and preferences, making them a favorite for all ages. Give them a try and enjoy the taste of winter magic in every bite!
Whether you prefer the classic coconut flavor or like to add your own twist with lemon, chocolate, or nuts, these snowballs are endlessly customizable. They’re also perfect for getting kids involved in the kitchen, as they’re easy to make and don’t require any cooking. Bring a little sweetness into your life with these easy Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs—you won’t be disappointed!