There’s something magical about a simple dessert that doesn’t require an oven, especially when it tastes as delicious as Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs. These little coconut-covered treats are an easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for everything from holiday gatherings to last-minute parties or just when you want a sweet bite without too much effort. They’re soft, chewy, and sweet, with a slight crunch of coconut that makes them irresistible. Best of all, they only require a handful of ingredients and can be made in under 30 minutes, with no baking involved.
What are Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs?
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are small, round treats made by mixing sweetened condensed milk with shredded coconut. These ingredients are rolled into bite-sized balls and coated in additional coconut flakes, creating a “snowy” effect—hence the name. The condensed milk provides the perfect sweetness and moistness, while the coconut gives them a pleasant chewy texture.
These snowballs are popular during the holiday season, but their simplicity means they can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick dessert to bring to a gathering, Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are a guaranteed hit.
Why You’ll Love Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs
- No-Bake and Simple: You don’t need to worry about turning on the oven or making a big mess in the kitchen. The simplicity of the recipe makes it great for anyone, from beginners to experienced bakers. Just mix, shape, and refrigerate!
- Customizable: This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can experiment with flavors and textures by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruits. You can also adjust the sweetness level depending on your preference.
- Perfect for Holidays: These little coconut snowballs have an almost festive look, making them a great addition to holiday cookie platters or as a party treat. Their snowy white coating is a charming visual cue for winter or holiday events.
- Easy to Store: They are great for making ahead of time. After the snowballs have set in the fridge, you can store them in an airtight container for up to a week, making them an ideal make-ahead treat.
The Basic Recipe
Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional, but helps with texture)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, graham cracker crumbs (optional), and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, now’s the time to mix them in!
- Form the Snowballs: Take spoonfuls of the mixture and roll them into small balls about 1-inch in diameter. You can make them bigger or smaller depending on your preference.
- Coat with Coconut: Roll each ball in extra shredded coconut until fully covered. This is where they get their snowball-like appearance.
- Chill and Set: Place the coconut-covered balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow them to firm up.
- Serve: Once chilled, your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are ready to serve. They’re best enjoyed cold, as the coconut texture becomes firmer, but they’ll be just as delicious at room temperature.
Fun Variations to Try
While the original recipe is simple and tasty on its own, you can add a personal touch by trying some of these variations:
- Chocolate Chip Snowballs: Add mini chocolate chips into the mix for a delightful chocolate-coconut combination. The richness of the chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the condensed milk and coconut.
- Nutty Snowballs: For some crunch and extra flavor, add finely chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans. The nuts provide a nice contrast to the chewy coconut.
- Lemon or Lime Snowballs: For a fresh twist, try adding a bit of lemon or lime zest to the mixture. This citrusy touch will give the snowballs a refreshing zing.
- Dried Fruit Snowballs: Dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins can be added for extra sweetness and texture. These would be perfect for a tropical or festive flair.
Why These Snowballs Are a Great Treat
- Versatile and Budget-Friendly: The ingredients in Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are common pantry items, and the recipe is easily adjustable to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Child-Friendly: These treats are fun for kids to make, and they don’t involve any heat, making them safe for children to prepare. They can help with mixing the ingredients and rolling the snowballs in coconut.
- Perfect for Gifting: Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs make great homemade gifts, especially if you package them in a cute tin or jar. The snowy appearance adds a festive touch, making them perfect for giving during the holiday season.
- Long Shelf Life: Because they’re refrigerated, these snowballs can last up to a week or longer if stored properly. This makes them an ideal treat to prepare in advance for a busy week or as a go-to snack when you need something sweet.
Conclusion
Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are the ideal no-bake treat for those who love easy, flavorful desserts. With their chewy coconut texture, creamy sweetness, and versatility, they’re a crowd-pleasing addition to any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a holiday treat, or just for a sweet snack, these snowballs are sure to delight anyone who tries them.
So, why not give this simple yet scrumptious recipe a try? With just a few ingredients and no baking required, you can enjoy a delicious homemade treat that will surely impress your friends and family!