These condensed milk melt-away cookies are incredibly soft, delicate, and buttery, with a texture that truly dissolves in your mouth. Made with simple pantry ingredients, they are elegant yet easy, perfect for tea time, holidays, or whenever you crave a light and tender cookie that feels special without being complicated.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies stand out for their simplicity and unique texture. They require minimal ingredients, no eggs, and no complicated techniques. The use of cornstarch instead of flour creates a tender crumb that melts instantly, while sweetened condensed milk adds gentle sweetness and richness. They are beginner-friendly, quick to prepare, and loved by both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cookies
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup (150 g) sweetened condensed milk
2 cups (250 g) cornstarch
Optional flavor additions
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar, for dusting after baking
Directions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully incorporated and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla or almond extract if using.
Gradually add the cornstarch, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. The dough should hold together when pressed but remain tender.
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between cookies.
Lightly flatten each cookie with your fingers or a fork if desired.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, keeping the cookies pale. The bottoms should be set, but the tops should not brown.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely before handling. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 20 to 24 small cookies.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes.
Baking time is 12 to 15 minutes.
Total time from start to finish is about 25 minutes.
Variations
For a lemon version, add 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest to the dough.
For chocolate melt-away cookies, mix in 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and reduce the cornstarch by 2 tablespoons.
For a coconut twist, fold in 1/3 cup finely shredded coconut.
For nutty flavor, use almond extract and gently press chopped almonds on top before baking.
For coffee flavor, dissolve 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder in the condensed milk before mixing.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
In the refrigerator, they keep well for up to 2 weeks, though the texture becomes slightly firmer.
Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating is not recommended, as these cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature.
FAQs
Why are these cookies called melt-away?
They are made with cornstarch instead of flour, which creates a very delicate texture that dissolves quickly when eaten.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture. Margarine may affect how the cookies set.
Do these cookies spread while baking?
They spread very little, which helps them keep a neat, uniform shape.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking.
Why should the cookies stay pale?
Overbrowning will dry them out and prevent the soft melt-away texture.
Can I skip the powdered sugar?
Yes, the cookies are lightly sweet on their own and do not require dusting.
Are these cookies suitable for gifting?
Yes, they hold their shape well once cooled and stay soft for several days.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, shape the dough into balls and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1 to 2 minutes.
What texture should the dough have?
The dough should be soft and smooth, holding together when pressed without being sticky.
Do I need a mixer to make this recipe?
No, the dough can easily be mixed by hand with a spoon or spatula.
Conclusion
Condensed milk melt-away cookies prove that a few simple ingredients can create something truly special. Their soft, delicate texture and gentle sweetness make them perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings. Easy to prepare and always impressive, this recipe is one you’ll return to again and again whenever you want a cookie that truly melts in your mouth.
