Milk Snowball Cookies are a classic holiday treat that delivers a perfect blend of buttery richness and a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. These small, bite-sized cookies are coated in powdered sugar, creating a snowy effect that makes them as visually appealing as they are delicious. Their simple ingredients and quick preparation make them an ideal choice for busy bakers who want to impress family and friends with a traditional, yet easy-to-make dessert.

What sets Milk Snowball Cookies apart is their use of finely chopped nuts, which adds a subtle crunch and a layer of flavor to each bite. The soft, tender dough combined with the crispness of the nuts creates a delightful contrast. Whether you’re making them for a festive occasion or simply treating yourself to a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. The best part? They are perfect for gifting, making them an excellent choice for holiday baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Milk Snowball Cookies are beloved for their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the rich, nutty flavor that comes from the finely chopped nuts. The powdered sugar coating not only adds sweetness but also gives these cookies their signature snowball appearance. The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. With a short prep and baking time, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes, making them a great option for last-minute cookie cravings or a sweet gift for loved ones.

Ingredients

Butter (softened)
Powdered sugar
Salt
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Finely chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
Additional powdered sugar for rolling

Variations

Nut-Free: For those with nut allergies, you can skip the nuts or replace them with a sprinkle of chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Flavored Snowballs: Try adding a teaspoon of almond extract or coconut extract for a unique twist on the traditional flavor.
Different Nuts: If you prefer a different nut, feel free to swap the walnuts or pecans with almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts for a variation in taste.
Chocolate-Coated: After rolling the cookies in powdered sugar, dip them in melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the salt, vanilla extract, and flour to the butter mixture. Mix well until a dough forms.

Step 3: Stir in the Nuts

Fold in the finely chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets. Ensure the balls are spaced about 1 inch apart to allow for even baking.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, or until they are set but not browned.

Step 6: Roll in Powdered Sugar

While the cookies are still warm, roll them in additional powdered sugar, ensuring they are fully coated.

Step 7: Cool Before Storing

Allow the cookies to cool on wire racks before storing them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to shape, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Even Cookie Sizes: Use a cookie scoop to ensure that each cookie is the same size, which helps them bake evenly.
Don’t Overbake: These cookies should remain soft and pale. Avoid baking them until they turn brown to maintain their tender texture.
Powdered Sugar Coating: For an extra snowy effect, coat the cookies in powdered sugar twice—once when they’re warm and again once they’re completely cooled.

How to Serve

Milk Snowball Cookies are perfect as an afternoon treat with a cup of tea or coffee. They’re also a great addition to holiday cookie platters or packaged as part of a homemade gift basket. The light texture and rich flavor pair beautifully with hot beverages, making them an ideal option for cozy winter gatherings or festive occasions. You can also serve them alongside other desserts for a sweet spread at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cookies store well for up to a week. Simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. They won’t dry out or lose their soft texture for several days.

Freezing

Milk Snowball Cookies freeze wonderfully. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy the cookies after freezing, let them thaw at room temperature. If you’d like them to be slightly warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter for these cookies as margarine can change the texture and flavor. If you must use margarine, choose one with a high butterfat content.

2. What kind of nuts can I use?

You can use any kind of finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. The nuts add flavor and texture, but you can skip them if you prefer a nut-free version.

3. Can I make these cookies without powdered sugar?

Powdered sugar is essential for the texture and appearance of these cookies. If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender until fine.

4. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking.

5. Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, you can add chocolate chips if you like. They would complement the buttery flavor and add another layer of richness to the cookies.

6. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then store them in an airtight container. You can bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

7. Why do my cookies spread too much?

If the dough spreads too much, it may be too warm. Try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before shaping and baking the cookies to prevent them from spreading too much.

8. Can I skip the nuts altogether?

Yes, if you prefer nut-free cookies, you can leave out the nuts without affecting the overall texture or flavor of the cookies.

9. How can I make these cookies more flavorful?

You can add a touch of cinnamon or almond extract to enhance the flavor. A little zest of orange or lemon can also add a refreshing twist.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to make more cookies. Just be sure to use a larger mixing bowl and adjust the baking sheets accordingly.

Conclusion

Milk Snowball Cookies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Whether you’re preparing them for the holidays or simply enjoying them with family, these cookies are sure to be a hit. With their soft texture, rich flavor, and snowy powdered sugar coating, they’re the perfect little indulgence for any occasion. Try them today and enjoy the sweet simplicity of this classic cookie!