These milk cookies strike the perfect balance between tender crumb and subtle sweetness, reminiscent of the comforting bakes you’d find in a warm Southern kitchen. The rich, creamy flavor blends traditional baking techniques with everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand.
The texture is buttery yet light, making these cookies as satisfying as a refreshing Lemon Honey Drink and Whipped Coffee—each bite melts in your mouth with a gentle sweetness that complements your favorite cup. This recipe elevates simple milk-based dough into a treat that pairs beautifully with citrusy or creamy beverages.
With minimal fuss and a few key tips from professional bakers, you can whip these up quickly and impress guests or yourself with cookies that feel indulgent yet approachable.
Perfect For Spring Afternoon Tea Gatherings!

- Spring is the ideal time for these delicate milk cookies, perfectly matching the season’s fresh citrus and floral flavors.
- Lemon tea becomes a daily ritual, and these cookies’ light sweetness pairs effortlessly with it.
- Their flavor evokes the feeling of blooming gardens and gentle sunshine, turning every tea-time into a charming escape.
- Whether hosting friends on the porch or enjoying a quiet moment with a book, these cookies add a comforting, nostalgic touch.
- They beautifully complement spring’s freshness and sense of renewal, making them a perfect seasonal treat.

Milk Cookies Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
- Rolling pin
- Round biscuit cutter (or cookie cutter)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Ingredients
- ½ cup shortening
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup white sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar for decoration
Instructions
- Begin by mixing all the ingredients except the flour in a bowl.
- Gradually add flour, about two cups, until the dough becomes firm enough to roll out.
- Roll the dough to about half an inch thick, then use a round biscuit cutter to cut out cookies.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a baking mat.
- Sprinkle the tops with sugar.
- Bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Let them cool before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try substituting some of the milk with cream or condensed milk.
- If the dough is too sticky, chill it for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice note.
Calories | 77kcal |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Fat | 3g |
Protein | 1g |
Cholesterol | 6g |
Variations To Help You Customise This Dish!
- Chocolate Chip Milk Cookies– Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate chunks into the dough before rolling for a classic chocolate twist.
- Lemon Zest Milk Cookies– Mix in 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough to give your cookies a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Nutty Delight– Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added crunch and richness.
- Spiced Milk Cookies– Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon and a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the dough for warm, aromatic spices.
- Cocoa Milk Cookies– Replace 2 tablespoons of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a subtle chocolate flavor and a beautiful color.