Description
Mexican Wedding Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies loaded with finely chopped pecans and coated in powdered sugar for a sweet, snowy finish. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, these traditional treats combine simple ingredients into a delightful dessert that’s easy to make and irresistible to eat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes, which helps give the cookies their tender texture.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract evenly to infuse the dough with its signature warm, sweet flavor.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overworking the dough and keeping the cookies tender.
- Mix in Pecans: Fold in the finely chopped pecans, which add a rich, nutty crunch to every bite.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow space for slight spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 to 14 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale, signaling the perfect delicate texture.
- First Sugar Coat: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then gently roll them in powdered sugar while still warm for the initial coating.
- Cool Completely and Final Coat: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll them in powdered sugar a second time for a beautiful snowy finish and extra sweetness.
Notes
- These cookies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to a week, maintaining their freshness.
- They freeze well, making them ideal for preparing in advance for holiday gatherings.
- For variety, substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds according to your preference.