Name: Sweetened Condensed Milk Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Sweetened Condensed Milk Cookies are delightfully soft, slightly chewy, and perfectly sweet treats that are incredibly simple to prepare. These cookies rely on pantry staples and come together without the need for complicated equipment or extended preparation time, making them ideal for both everyday baking and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are beloved for their tender texture and rich flavor, made possible by the inclusion of sweetened condensed milk. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned expert, this recipe offers consistent, satisfying results. They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed plain or customized with various add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits. Plus, the dough requires no chilling, meaning you can satisfy your cookie cravings almost instantly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
Sweetened condensed milk

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Mix in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: Around 25 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Chip Version: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
Coconut Twist: Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
Spiced Option: Mix in ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic profile.
Citrus Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to brighten the flavor.
Nutty Addition: Stir in ⅓ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
To reheat, warm in the microwave for about 10 seconds for a freshly baked feel.

FAQs

What does sweetened condensed milk do in cookies?

Sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness and moisture, resulting in a soft and chewy texture.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, this recipe does not require dough chilling, making it quicker to prepare.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Can I reduce the sugar since condensed milk is already sweet?

Yes, you can reduce the added granulated sugar slightly if preferred, though it may affect the texture.

Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely, they freeze well. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft; they will continue to firm as they cool.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use homemade condensed milk?

Yes, as long as it has a similar consistency and sweetness to the canned version.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

This may be due to overly soft butter or not measuring flour correctly. Try chilling the dough briefly if spreading is an issue.

Conclusion

Sweetened Condensed Milk Cookies are a wonderfully simple and rewarding treat to bake at home. Their rich, soft texture and sweet flavor make them a standout among classic cookie recipes. Whether you enjoy them as-is or experiment with variations, these cookies are sure to become a repeat favorite in your baking routine.