Mexican Wedding Cookies: A Timeless Sweet Treat

There’s something magical about the first bite of a Mexican Wedding Cookie. Its buttery, nutty flavor melts in your mouth, while the powdered sugar coating provides just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these cookies bring comfort and joy to your table.

What Are Mexican Wedding Cookies?

Mexican Wedding Cookies are delicate, buttery cookies traditionally made with finely chopped nuts and coated in powdered sugar. Known by many names, such as snowballs or Russian tea cakes, they are beloved across cultures for their crumbly texture and rich flavor. They’re perfect for weddings, holidays, or anytime you need a delicious pick-me-up.

Ingredients for Mexican Wedding Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to create a batch of these delightful cookies:

Ingredient	Amount
Unsalted butter (softened)	1 cup
White sugar	½ cup
Vanilla extract	2 teaspoons
Water	2 teaspoons
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Finely chopped almonds	1 cup
Salt	¼ teaspoon
Powdered sugar (for coating)	½ cup (or more)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mexican Wedding Cookies

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all your ingredients. Ensuring that the butter is softened will make the mixing process much smoother.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the butter and white sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
2. Mix in the vanilla extract and water until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the flour, chopped almonds, and salt to the wet ingredients.
2. Mix on low speed until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies dense.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 1 to 3 hours. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare unlined cookie sheets.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

1. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls.
2. Place the balls on the cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the cookie sheets for about 5 minutes.

Step 8: Roll in Powdered Sugar

1. Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
2. Roll the cooled cookies in the sugar until fully coated.

Step 9: Store and Enjoy

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week—if they last that long!

Why Mexican Wedding Cookies Are So Popular

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these cookies are easy to whip up anytime.
• Universal Appeal: Their rich, nutty flavor and soft, crumbly texture make them a hit with all ages.
• Versatility: Perfect for weddings, holiday parties, or a cozy afternoon snack.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Wedding Cookies

1. Use High-Quality Butter

The butter is the star of this recipe, so use a high-quality unsalted variety for the best flavor.

2. Choose the Right Nuts

While almonds are traditional, you can substitute them with pecans or walnuts for a slightly different flavor.

3. Don’t Skip Chilling

Chilling the dough is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

4. Double-Coat with Sugar

For extra sweetness and a beautiful snowy appearance, roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice—once when warm and again after they cool completely.

Creative Variations of Mexican Wedding Cookies

1. Add a Citrus Twist

Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing flavor.

2. Chocolate Drizzle

After the cookies cool, drizzle melted dark chocolate over them for an elegant touch.

3. Gluten-Free Option

Substitute all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

4. Spice It Up

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced twist.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one cookie:

Nutrient	Amount Per Cookie
Calories	100
Total Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	3g
Carbohydrates	9g
Sugars	5g
Protein	1g

FAQs About Mexican Wedding Cookies

1. Why are they called Mexican Wedding Cookies?

They’re a popular choice for weddings in Mexico due to their festive appearance and delicate flavor. Similar cookies are found in other cultures under different names.

2. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes! Shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

3. How do I prevent them from crumbling?

Be gentle when handling the cookies, especially when rolling them in powdered sugar. Allowing them to cool slightly helps them hold their shape.

4. Can I use salted butter?

If you only have salted butter, omit the added salt in the recipe.

5. How long do they last?

Stored in an airtight container, these cookies remain fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.

6. Can I make them without nuts?

While nuts are a key ingredient, you can omit them for a nut-free version. The texture will be slightly less crumbly.

Why You Should Try Mexican Wedding Cookies Today

Mexican Wedding Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a delightful way to celebrate life’s sweet moments. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a treat for yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone who tries them.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a batch of these timeless cookies. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how quickly they disappear!

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