French Cocoa Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs Recipe

Introduction

These French cocoa sweetened condensed milk snowballs are a simple and delicious no-bake treat perfect for the holidays. With a rich, fudgy texture from the condensed milk and a delicate cocoa powder coating, they are irresistibly easy to make. For another festive no-bake dessert, try this Christmas Mint Oreo Fudge Recipe.

Ingredients

These rich, fudgy Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs deliver intense chocolate flavor with a delightfully chewy texture, perfectly balanced by the nutty crunch.

• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
• 1/2 cup fat-free sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs come together about 20% faster than similar no-bake recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all ingredients for your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs: sweetened condensed milk, butter, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, and finely chopped nuts or shredded coconut for coating. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.

Step 2 — Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even blending.

Step 3 — Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as the flour is fully incorporated and no dry spots remain.

Step 4 — Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and shape into uniform snowballs without sticking to your hands.

Step 5 — Shape the Snowballs

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the chilled dough and roll it between your palms into 1-inch balls. Work quickly to prevent the dough from warming up too much, which can cause spreading during baking.

Step 6 — Coat with Toppings

Roll each dough ball in finely chopped walnuts, pecans, or shredded coconut until fully coated. For even coverage, place your coating in a shallow bowl and gently press each snowball into it, rolling to cover all sides.

Step 7 — Bake to Perfection

Arrange the coated Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden and the snowballs are set but still pale on top.

Step 8 — Cool Completely

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the snowballs cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely—this helps them firm up and develop their signature tender texture.

Step 9 — Store or Serve

Once cooled, store your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	2g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fat	8g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	45mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt — Adds protein and tang while maintaining creaminess.
• Coconut cream — A rich, dairy-free option with natural sweetness.
• Almond flour — A gluten-free, lower-carb alternative to traditional flour.
• Unsweetened applesauce — Provides moisture with less sugar and calories.
• Vanilla protein powder — Boosts protein content and adds flavor without extra sugar.
• Date paste — A natural sweetener that is lower on the glycemic index.
• Low-sodium baking powder — Reduces sodium while ensuring proper rise.
• Chia seeds — Adds fiber and omega-3s for a nutrient boost.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy, comforting treat.
• Pair with fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries to add a tart contrast to the sweet, creamy snowballs.
• Arrange on a festive platter with other holiday cookies for a beautiful and varied dessert spread.
• Dust with extra powdered sugar just before serving to enhance the snowy appearance of your Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs.
• Offer with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert combination.
• Package in decorative boxes or bags to give as homemade edible gifts during the holiday season.

For an elegant presentation, place each Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowball in a petite paper liner and arrange them on a tiered stand. This not only looks impressive but also makes them easy for guests to pick up and enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold sweetened condensed milk straight from the can. Fix: Let it reach room temperature to blend smoothly with other ingredients.
• Mistake: Overmixing the dough, which develops gluten and creates tough snowballs. Fix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the chilling step before baking. Fix: Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent excessive spreading in the oven.
• Mistake: Baking at too high a temperature, causing the bottoms to burn. Fix: Use a moderate oven temperature (around 325-350°F) for even cooking.
• Mistake: Rolling the balls in powdered sugar while they are still hot. Fix: Let them cool slightly so the sugar coating adheres properly without melting.
• Mistake: Not measuring the sweetened condensed milk accurately. Fix: Use liquid measuring cups for precise volume to maintain the correct dough consistency.
• Mistake: Using old baking powder or soda, resulting in flat snowballs. Fix: Check the expiration date to ensure proper leavening and a good rise.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking sheet, which leads to uneven baking. Fix: Leave adequate space between dough balls for proper air circulation.
• Mistake: Storing the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs while still warm. Fix: Cool completely in a single layer before storing to prevent sogginess.
• Mistake: Substituting sweetened condensed milk with evaporated milk and sugar. Fix: Stick to the real ingredient for the authentic creamy texture and sweetness.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Thaw frozen snowballs in the refrigerator overnight. For a warm treat, microwave in 10-second intervals until just warm, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for food safety.

Always allow Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Conclusion

These Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs are a wonderfully simple and delicious treat. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Old-Fashioned Coconut Cream Pie Recipe next! Please leave a comment and subscribe for more easy dessert ideas.

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FAQs

Can I make Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these snowballs in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The sweetened condensed milk helps keep them moist and delicious.

What can I use if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is essential for the texture and flavor of Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs. A homemade version can be made by simmering milk and sugar until thickened, but using the canned product is recommended for best results.

How do I prevent the snowballs from becoming too sticky?

Chill the dough thoroughly before shaping the Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs. Lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar or flour when rolling them to minimize sticking and achieve a smooth, round shape.