There’s something incredibly comforting about baking. The warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen, the satisfying way the dough transforms into golden cookies, and of course, the joy of sharing them with friends and family. When summer rolls around, I find myself craving simple yet delicious treats that come together in no time, and that’s exactly what these Sweetened Condensed Milk Cookies offer.
Made with just a few ingredients, these cookies are wonderfully soft and chewy with a rich, caramel-like flavor that comes from the star ingredient—sweetened condensed milk. These cookies are so easy to prepare that they’ve become a staple in my summer baking rotation. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies will hit the spot every time.
Why Use Sweetened Condensed Milk in Cookies?
Sweetened condensed milk is a unique ingredient that provides both sweetness and moisture. It’s thicker and richer than regular milk, which helps create a soft, tender cookie with a slight caramel undertone. Unlike regular sugar or butter, condensed milk adds a distinct texture and sweetness, which means you don’t need to worry about overmixing or adjusting the sugar levels.
These cookies are perfect for beginners—no complicated steps, no chilling time, just straightforward baking. The result is a batch of perfectly soft, chewy cookies that will melt in your mouth. Plus, you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences with different add-ins or toppings, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.
Ingredients for Sweetened Condensed Milk Cookies (Yields 12–14 Cookies)
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1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
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1/3 cup (80g) sweetened condensed milk
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1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, white chocolate chunks, shredded coconut, rainbow sprinkles, or lemon zest
Tip: If you prefer a healthier option, try substituting the flour with a gluten-free blend or use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the cookies don’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Condensed Milk
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix it in until the texture becomes smooth and velvety. This combination of butter and condensed milk will be the foundation for your chewy cookie dough.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
To the creamy mixture, stir in the vanilla extract. Then, add the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined, but be careful not to overwork the dough. The goal is to create a soft and slightly sticky dough that holds together without being too runny.
Step 4: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing each ball about 2 inches apart. If you like, you can gently flatten the dough with a spoon or your fingers to give them a slightly more even shape. If you want to get creative, press some chocolate chips or sprinkles on top for a colorful finish.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as they bake, since they cook quickly. When they’re done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Summer Variations to Try
One of the best things about Sweetened Condensed Milk Cookies is their versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your mood or the season. Here are a few delicious summer variations to get you started:
- Lemon Coconut Cookies: Add 1 tbsp of lemon zest and 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to the dough for a bright, tropical flavor.
- S’mores Cookies: Stir in mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and crushed graham crackers for a nostalgic, campfire-inspired treat. If you’re a fan of S’mores, also try our S’mores Crumble Bars.
- Berry White Chocolate Cookies: Add dried strawberries and white chocolate chips for a fresh, fruity take. This combo is perfect when paired with Raspberry Cheesecake Bars.
- Tropical Twist: Mix in dried pineapple and a dash of cinnamon or cardamom for a sweet, exotic flavor. Try it alongside Coconut Waffles for a tropical breakfast.
Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Summer
These cookies check all the right boxes when it comes to summer baking. Here’s why:
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No Chill Time: Unlike many cookie recipes that require chilling the dough, these come together quickly and can be baked right away.
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Few Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and just a few simple ingredients, this is the ideal recipe for a spontaneous bake.
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Quick Baking: The cookies bake in under 12 minutes, so you’ll have fresh cookies ready in no time.
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Customizable: Whether you add chocolate chips, coconut, or fruit, you can tailor these cookies to fit your summer mood.
Storing and Freezing
These cookies are perfect for making ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you have extras, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few minutes, or warm them up for that just-baked feel.
Perfect Pairings for Your Sweetened Condensed Milk Cookies
These cookies are versatile enough to pair with just about anything! Serve them alongside a glass of freshly brewed iced tea or iced coffee. For a fun dessert bar, pair them with:
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Raspberry Lava Cake – for a rich, molten dessert
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Mini Gingerbread Men Cookies – for a playful, bite-sized treat
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Pineapple Zucchini Cake – for a light, fruity sidekick
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Fluffy Cinnamon Pancakes – for a cozy, breakfast-inspired addition
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 140
- Carbs: 17g
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 2g
(Note: These values are based on standard-sized cookies without add-ins.)
Final Thoughts: A Cookie You’ll Make Over and Over
Whether you’re baking for a summer party or just craving something sweet, these Sweetened Condensed Milk Cookies are a must-try. They come together in no time, require only a handful of ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite flavors. Soft, chewy, and perfect for summer—what’s not to love?
Try them out today, and let me know your favorite variation in the comments or on social media. Don’t forget to tag #SofyaRecipes so I can see your delicious creations!