Why You’ll Love This Recipe
3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies are proof that delicious baking does not need to be complicated. With just three basic pantry ingredients, you can create soft, lightly sweet cookies that are perfect for last-minute baking, afternoon treats, or when you simply want something homemade without extra effort. I tested this recipe multiple times, and what makes it special is its simplicity paired with consistent results. The cookies bake up tender with a subtle caramel-like sweetness from the condensed milk and a melt-in-the-mouth texture that appeals to both children and adults. There is no chilling, no special equipment, and no long ingredient list to manage. These cookies are ideal for beginner bakers, busy days, or anyone who appreciates simple, comforting desserts made with minimal fuss.
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3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies (Quick, Simple, and Perfectly Sweet)
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies are soft, buttery cookies made with just condensed milk, butter, and cornstarch, perfect for an easy melt-in-your-mouth treat.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined.
- Gradually add the cornstarch and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Roll dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten slightly with a fork or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until set but not browned.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Do not overbake; cookies should remain pale.
- Add vanilla or lemon zest for extra flavor if desired.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Sweetened condensed milk provides sweetness, moisture, and structure. It gives the cookies a soft texture and a gentle caramel flavor.
Unsalted Butter
Butter adds richness and creates a tender crumb. Softened butter blends easily with the condensed milk for a smooth dough.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour gives the cookies structure and shape while keeping them light and soft.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk. Mix until smooth and fully blended.
Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but easy to handle.
Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Gently flatten each ball with the back of a fork or your fingers.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale for a soft texture.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 18 cookies.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: approximately 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These cookies do not require reheating, but they can be warmed briefly in the oven if desired. They also freeze well for up to 2 months.
Variations and Customizations
These cookies are an excellent base for customization. You can add chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture. I tested a version with mini chocolate chips, and it added just the right amount of richness.
For a flavored twist, add a small amount of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the dough.
You can also roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before baking for a slightly crisp exterior.
If you prefer firmer cookies, bake them for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden on top.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate nutrition per cookie:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbs | 16 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 45 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use Softened Butter
This ensures smooth mixing and even texture.
Do Not Overbake
The cookies should remain pale for softness.
Measure Flour Accurately
Too much flour can make the cookies dry.
Flatten Gently
This helps the cookies bake evenly.
Cool Before Moving
They firm up slightly as they cool.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce any additional salt if adding flavorings.
Are these cookies very sweet?
They are moderately sweet, balanced by the butter.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales very easily.
Do these cookies spread a lot?
No, they hold their shape well when flattened.
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes, they are soft, mild, and kid-friendly.
Conclusion
3-Ingredient Condensed Milk Cookies are a simple yet satisfying treat that delivers homemade comfort with minimal effort. Soft, sweet, and endlessly adaptable, they are perfect for quick baking sessions, beginner bakers, or anytime you want an easy dessert that still feels special. This recipe is a reminder that sometimes the simplest ideas create the most delightful results.
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