sweetened condensed milk snowballs

 

Introduction

Welcome to our delightful world of desserts! Today, we’re diving into a fun and easy recipe that will bring joy to your kitchen and a smile to your face: Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs. These little treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or just indulging in a sweet moment at home. With their creamy texture and delightful sweetness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.

What is Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs?

Sweetened condensed milk snowballs are bite-sized treats made primarily from sweetened condensed milk, coconut flakes, and a few other simple ingredients. These no-bake desserts are rolled into small balls and coated with coconut, giving them a snowball-like appearance. They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect recipe for both novice and experienced bakers.

Ingredients

To make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk
• 3 cups of shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, based on preference)
• 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup of powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Extra shredded coconut for rolling

Kitchen Tools

Before you start making these delightful snowballs, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon (for portioning)
• Plate or baking sheet (for chilling)
• Plastic wrap (optional, for storage)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get started! Follow these simple steps to create your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs:

1. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, graham cracker crumbs, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar (if using). Stir well until the mixture is fully combined and forms a sticky dough.
2. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle when forming the snowballs.
3. Form the Snowballs: Once chilled, take the mixture out of the fridge. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the mixture. Roll each portion into a ball between your palms until smooth.
4. Coat with Coconut: Roll each ball in the extra shredded coconut until fully coated. This will give them their signature snowball appearance!
5. Chill Again: Place the finished snowballs on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for another 15-30 minutes to set.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs turn out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your shredded coconut is fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet treat, feel free to reduce the amount of powdered sugar or use unsweetened coconut.
• Chill Thoroughly: Don't skip the chilling steps! Chilling the mixture helps the snowballs hold their shape.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add in chocolate chips, nuts, or other flavorings to customize your snowballs.

Variations

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are versatile, and you can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Chocolate Snowballs: Add cocoa powder to the mixture or dip the finished snowballs in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
• Nutty Snowballs: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the mixture for added crunch.
• Fruit-Infused Snowballs: Mix in dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots for a fruity twist.
• Spiced Snowballs: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are perfect for any occasion! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve them at birthday parties or holiday gatherings as a delightful dessert option.
• Pair them with coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon snack.
• Present them in decorative boxes or bags as edible gifts for friends and family.
• Use them as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for added texture and sweetness.

Storage Instructions

To keep your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store the snowballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the snowballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months.
• Thawing: To enjoy frozen snowballs, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information per snowball (based on a recipe that makes approximately 20 snowballs):

• Calories: 100
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and variations made to the recipe.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs:

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, absolutely! Unsweetened coconut will give you a less sweet treat, which some people prefer.

Can I make these snowballs vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or a vegan sweetened condensed milk substitute.

How do I prevent the snowballs from sticking to my hands?

Lightly grease your hands with oil or water before rolling the mixture into balls to prevent sticking.

Can I add chocolate to the recipe?

Yes! You can add cocoa powder to the mixture or dip the finished snowballs in melted chocolate for a delicious variation.

How long do these snowballs last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they will last up to one week. If frozen, they can last for up to three months.

Conclusion

Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are a simple yet delightful treat that everyone will love. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create delicious little bites that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them at a gathering or as a sweet snack at home, these snowballs are sure to impress. Try making them today, and let the sweetness of these snowballs bring a little extra joy to your day!