Mexican Wedding Cookies
Highlighted under: Quick Dessert Recipes
Delightful, buttery cookies rolled in powdered sugar, perfect for any celebration.
Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Polvorones, are a cherished treat often enjoyed during celebrations and holidays. Their delicate texture and nutty flavor make them irresistible, and they are traditionally served at weddings and festive gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla
- Perfectly crumbly texture that melts in your mouth
- A delightful treat for special occasions or everyday indulgence
The History of Mexican Wedding Cookies
Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Polvorones or Mexican Wedding Cakes, have a rich history rooted in Mexican culture. Traditionally served at weddings and festive occasions, these cookies symbolize love and celebration. The name 'Polvorones' comes from the Spanish word 'polvo,' meaning powder, which refers to the fine texture of the cookies once baked and rolled in powdered sugar. Over the years, they have transcended cultural boundaries, becoming popular in various celebrations around the world.
These cookies are not only a delicious treat but also a nod to the deep culinary traditions of Mexico. They often feature local ingredients, such as nuts and spices, which highlight the region's rich agricultural history. Each family may have their own variation, adding personal touches that make the recipe unique. This adaptability allows the cookies to maintain their place in festive traditions while inviting creativity in the kitchen.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To achieve the perfect texture for your Mexican Wedding Cookies, it's crucial to start with softened butter. This ensures that the butter blends smoothly with the sugar, yielding a light and fluffy mixture. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the dough once you incorporate the dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tougher cookies instead of the desired crumbly texture.
Another tip is to let the cookies cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar. If you roll them while they are too hot, the sugar will melt and create a syrupy coating. Instead, allow the cookies to rest for a few minutes after baking, then coat them generously in powdered sugar for that delightful, sweet finish.
Serving and Storing
Mexican Wedding Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual tea times. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them an excellent addition to brunch or dessert tables. You can also package them beautifully in boxes or tins to give as gifts, sharing the joy of these delectable treats with friends and family.
When it comes to storage, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy them again!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful cookies:
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Mexican Wedding Cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Vanilla and Mix
Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, chopped nuts, and salt.
Mix Dry Ingredients with Butter Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, shape the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
Coat in Powdered Sugar
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade Mexican Wedding Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Nutritional Information
Mexican Wedding Cookies are a delightful indulgence, but it's essential to be aware of their nutritional content. Each cookie is relatively small, making it easy to enjoy in moderation. The primary ingredients include butter, flour, sugar, and nuts, which contribute to their rich flavor and texture. However, due to the butter and sugar content, they are best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack.
If you're looking to lighten the recipe, consider using unsweetened applesauce as a partial substitute for butter, or try replacing some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. These substitutions can help you enjoy these cookies while maintaining your dietary preferences.
Variations to Try
While the classic recipe for Mexican Wedding Cookies is beloved, there are numerous variations you can experiment with to suit your taste. For a unique twist, consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the dough to brighten the flavor. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy touch.
Another delicious variation is to swap out the nuts for other ingredients, such as dried fruits or chocolate chips. These additions can create exciting flavor combinations and textures. No matter how you choose to customize your cookies, the fundamental rich buttery essence will always shine through, making them a delightful treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, feel free to use any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or hazelnuts.
→ How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough or the baked cookies for up to three months.
→ What can I substitute for butter?
You can use a dairy-free butter substitute if you're looking for a vegan option.
Mexican Wedding Cookies
Delightful, buttery cookies rolled in powdered sugar, perfect for any celebration.
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Quick Dessert Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, chopped nuts, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Using your hands, shape the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 10mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 2g