When it comes to cookies that feel like a warm hug, Mexican wedding cookies take the crown. These tender, buttery cookies, dusted with powdered sugar, practically melt in your mouth. They’re a cherished part of celebrations worldwide, known by many names, including Russian tea cakes and snowball cookies.

Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because, these cookies are easy to prepare and utterly delightful. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect batch.

Why You’ll Love Mexican Wedding Cookies

1. Buttery Goodness: Their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture comes from the perfect combination of butter and powdered sugar.
2. Nutty Flavor: Toasted pecans add a warm, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet dough.
3. Simple Yet Elegant: With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies look and taste stunning.
4. Perfect for Gifting: Their delicate appearance and long shelf life make them an excellent gift option.

Ingredients for Mexican Wedding Cookies

To make about 24 cookies, you’ll need:

• 1 cup toasted pecans
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

How to Make Mexican Wedding Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Pecans

1. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when they release a nutty aroma.
2. Transfer the toasted pecans to a food processor and pulse until they form a coarse meal. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together the softened butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and sea salt. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
2. Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing to combine.
3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
4. Fold in the ground pecans using a spatula.

Step 3: Form the Cookies

1. Use a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each scoop into a ball with your hands.
2. Arrange the dough balls on two parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart.
3. If the dough feels sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before rolling.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the cookies for 13–16 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking, as these cookies are meant to be tender.
3. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Dust with Powdered Sugar

1. Once the cookies have cooled slightly, roll each one in powdered sugar until well-coated.
2. For an extra snowy appearance, dust the cookies with a second layer of powdered sugar just before serving.

Tips for the Best Mexican Wedding Cookies

1. Use Room-Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends better with the sugar, resulting in a smooth dough.
2. Toast the Pecans: Toasting brings out their rich, nutty flavor, making the cookies more aromatic.
3. Chill the Dough if Needed: Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
4. Double Dusting: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar twice gives them their signature snowy look.
5. Store Properly: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Cookie (Approx.)
Calories	120
Protein	1 g
Carbohydrates	11 g
Fat	8 g
Sugar	5 g

Why These Cookies Work

• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The powdered sugar and butter create a cookie that practically dissolves as you bite into it.
• Versatile Flavor: While pecans are traditional, you can experiment with almonds, walnuts, or even pistachios.
• Elegant Simplicity: Their minimal ingredients and refined appearance make them perfect for special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can we use different nuts?

Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts work well as substitutes for pecans. Just be sure to toast and finely chop them.

2. Why is my dough sticky?

Sticky dough usually means your butter is too soft or warm. Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm it up before rolling.

3. How long do these cookies last?

When stored in an airtight container, Mexican wedding cookies stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.

4. It is possible to make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

5. Can I skip the almond extract?

Yes, almond extract is optional. If you prefer, you can replace it with more vanilla extract.

6. Do I have to use a food processor for the pecans?

While a food processor is convenient, you can also chop the pecans finely by hand or use a blender.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Conclusion: A Timeless Cookie to Cherish

This Mexican wedding cookies recipe is a timeless classic that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for the holidays, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself, these cookies always deliver. Their rich, buttery flavor, nutty crunch, and snowy powdered sugar coating make them a dessert to remember.

So gather your ingredients, toast those pecans, and get ready to bake a treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Your cookie jar is about to get a delicious upgrade!

Print