3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies

It was the holiday season a few years ago, and I was hosting my annual cookie exchange party. I knew I wanted to make something simple yet delicious, and that’s when I stumbled upon the perfect recipe – 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies. I’ll never forget the look on my friends’ faces when I pulled the first batch out of the oven. The warm, buttery aroma filled the room, and everyone crowded around to get a closer look.

As I started handing out the cookies, the compliments came pouring in. “These are the best cookies I’ve ever had!” one friend exclaimed. “How did you make these with just three ingredients?” another asked in disbelief. I was thrilled that my 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies were such a hit, and I knew I had to share the recipe.

Why This 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies

What makes these 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies so special? The secret lies in the simplicity of the recipe and the rich, decadent flavor of the sweetened condensed milk. By using just three basic ingredients – condensed milk, flour, and butter – you end up with a cookie that’s crisp on the outside and wonderfully soft and chewy on the inside.

The condensed milk provides a delightful sweetness that balances perfectly with the buttery richness. And the all-purpose flour gives the cookies just the right amount of structure, without making them dense or heavy. It’s a winning combination that results in a cookie that’s truly irresistible.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies, you’ll need:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk: This is the star ingredient that gives the cookies their signature flavor and texture. The sweetened condensed milk adds a luscious, caramelized note that you simply can’t replicate with regular milk or sugar.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The flour provides the structure and shape to the cookies, helping them hold their form during baking. All-purpose flour is the perfect choice, as it results in a tender, slightly chewy texture.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Butter is essential for creating the rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb that makes these cookies so addictive. Be sure to use unsalted butter so you can control the level of saltiness.

Step-by-Step 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies Instructions

Preparing Your 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies

With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 10 minutes, these 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies come together in a flash. All you’ll need is a mixing bowl, a spoon or electric mixer, and a baking sheet.

1- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2- In a medium bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and the entire 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. Use a spoon or electric mixer to cream the butter and milk together until well blended and smooth.

3- Gradually stir in the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing just until a dough forms. The dough will be thick and sticky, but that’s exactly what you want.

4- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. The cookies will spread as they bake, so be sure to leave plenty of room.

5- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the centers to remain soft and chewy.

6- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies warm or at room temperature, and enjoy their irresistible flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the perfect 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies every time:

1. Make sure your butter is truly softened before starting. This will help it cream together easily with the condensed milk.
2. Don’t overmix the dough once the flour is added. Overmixing can result in tough, dense cookies. Mix just until the flour is incorporated.
3. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion the dough into uniform balls. This will ensure even baking and consistent cookie sizes.
4. Resist the urge to overbake the cookies. You want them to be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center.
5. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set up and maintain their shape.
6. For an extra-special touch, try sprinkling the warm cookies with a bit of coarse sea salt or rolling them in toasted coconut or chopped nuts before serving.

Serving and Storing Your 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies

Perfect Pairings for 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies

These 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies are the perfect treat to enjoy on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments. Serve them alongside a steaming mug of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy, comforting snack. They also make a lovely addition to an afternoon tea or coffee break.

For a festive touch, arrange the cookies on a platter and serve them at holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as part of a dessert buffet. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. And since this recipe makes 24 cookies, you’ll have plenty to share.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Fortunately, these 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies are easy to store and enjoy for days to come. Once the cookies have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

For longer-term storage, the cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

If you’d like to get a head start on your baking, you can also prepare the cookie dough in advance. Store the dough, tightly wrapped, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply scoop and bake the cookies as directed.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies

Creative 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies Variations

While the classic 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies are absolutely delicious as-is, you can also get creative with a few fun variations:

1. Chocolate Chip 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies: Fold in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips or chunks before baking.
2. Lemon 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies: Grate the zest of 1 lemon into the dough and add a teaspoon of lemon juice.
3. Coconut 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies: Mix in 1 cup of shredded sweetened coconut for a tropical twist.
4. Cinnamon-Sugar 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies: Roll the dough balls in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking.

Making 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies Diet-Friendly

If you’re looking to make these 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try:

For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure to check the label to ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute.

To make vegan 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies, swap the sweetened condensed milk for a plant-based condensed milk alternative, such as coconut condensed milk. For the butter, use a vegan butter or coconut oil.

For a low-carb or keto-friendly take, replace the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of almond flour or a keto-approved flour blend. You may need to adjust the baking time and temperature slightly.

No matter which dietary modifications you choose, the end result will still be a delicious, indulgent cookie that satisfies your sweet tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of flour besides all-purpose?
A: While all-purpose flour is the recommended choice for these 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies, you can experiment with other flours like whole wheat, oat, or gluten-free blends. Just keep in mind that the texture and baking time may vary.

Q: How long do these cookies take to bake?
A: The total baking time for these 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies is 10 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as you want the edges to be lightly golden but the centers to remain soft and chewy.

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! The cookie dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply scoop and bake the cookies as directed.

Q: How many cookies does this recipe make?
A: This 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies recipe yields 24 cookies, making it perfect for sharing with friends, family, or bringing to a party or potluck.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Leftover 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer-term storage, the cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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Conclusion

These 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies are truly a game-changer in the world of easy, delicious baking. With their irresistible flavor, chewy texture, and minimal prep time, it’s no wonder they’ve become a new family favorite. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the magic for yourself. Don’t forget to share your creation on social media and tag me – I can’t wait to see how your 3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies turn out!