Snowball Cookies with Sweetened Condensed Milk

### **Instructions**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Dough**
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Gradually sift in the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Gently fold in the chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

#### **Step 2: Chill the Dough**
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies retain their shape during baking.

#### **Step 3: Shape the Cookies**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball.

#### **Step 4: Bake**
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to stay soft and crumbly.

#### **Step 5: Coat in Powdered Sugar**
1. Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes. While they are still warm, roll them gently in powdered sugar to coat them fully.
2. For a snowy effect, roll the cookies in powdered sugar again once they are completely cool.

### **Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies**
– **Chop the Nuts Finely**: Finely chopped nuts blend seamlessly into the dough and make the cookies easier to shape.
– **Don’t Skip Chilling**: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading during baking.
– **Double Coat for Extra Sweetness**: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar twice enhances their sweet and festive appearance.

### **Storage Suggestions**
These cookies store wonderfully and can be made ahead of time:
– **Room Temperature**: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
– **Freezing**: Freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and re-coat in powdered sugar if needed.

### **Why Sweetened Condensed Milk Works Wonders**
The sweetened condensed milk in this recipe not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture, resulting in cookies that are rich, soft, and slightly chewy in the center. It’s the secret ingredient that makes these snowball cookies truly unforgettable.

### **Conclusion**
Snowball Cookies with Sweetened Condensed Milk are the ultimate holiday treat. Their delicate texture, nutty flavor, and snowy appearance make them an irresistible addition to any dessert table. Whether you’re baking for a party or just indulging in a little holiday cheer, these cookies are sure to impress. Try them this season and watch as they disappear from the plate in no time!