Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Snowball Cookies, are a delightful treat that has won hearts worldwide. These cookies are characterized by their buttery, crumbly texture and a generous coating of powdered sugar that makes them look like little snowballs. Despite their name, these cookies are not just for weddings; they are perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. This recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients for Mexican Wedding Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Mexican Wedding Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Ensure the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Add Vanilla Extract:
- Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating on low speed until just combined.
- Add Nuts:
- Stir in the finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Ensure the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Refrigerate:
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The tops of the cookies should remain pale.
Step 4: Coat the Cookies
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. They should be warm but not too hot to handle.
- First Coating:
- Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar, ensuring they are well-coated. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Second Coating:
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a generous coating. This second coating gives the cookies their classic snowball appearance.
About the Main Ingredients
Butter
Butter is the foundation of these cookies, providing a rich and creamy texture that makes them melt in your mouth. It’s crucial to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners’ sugar, is used both in the dough and for coating the cookies. It dissolves easily, giving the cookies a smooth texture and a sweet finish. The double coating of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives the cookies their signature snowball look.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds a subtle but essential flavor to the cookies, enhancing the taste of the butter and sugar. It’s a key ingredient that rounds out the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cookies. It’s important to measure the flour correctly to avoid a dense or dry dough. Using a spoon to fill the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife ensures you get the right amount.
Nuts
Finely chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor to the cookies. Pecans are traditional, but walnuts work just as well. Make sure the nuts are finely chopped to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
Salt
A small amount of salt balances the sweetness of the cookies and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Even in sweet recipes, salt plays a crucial role in flavor development.
Mexican Wedding Cookies are a classic treat that brings joy to any occasion. Their simple ingredients and easy preparation make them a go-to recipe for festive gatherings, holiday baking, or just when you’re in the mood for something sweet and special. The combination of buttery dough, crunchy nuts, and a generous coating of powdered sugar creates a delightful cookie that’s hard to resist. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious cookies with your loved ones!
