Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a festive celebration or a cozy family gathering. These delightful cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cookies, offer a rich buttery flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Coated in powdered sugar, they add a sweet touch to birthdays, holidays, or simply afternoon tea. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, these cookies are sure to impress everyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just seven ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, pecans, and vanilla creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for holidays, parties, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Customizable Options: You can easily swap pecans for walnuts or add other flavors like chocolate chips.
• Make Ahead: These cookies can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Mexican Wedding Cookies, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing the butter and sugar easy and ensures a smooth dough consistency.
• Cookie scoop: Using this helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• ½ cup confectioners sugar (sifted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all purpose flour (sifted)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup pecans or walnuts (chopped)

For Rolling

• 1 cup confectioners sugar (sifted – for rolling cookies in)

How to Make Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Prepare your baking sheets by spraying them with nonstick cooking spray or lining them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugars

In your stand mixer, add the room temperature butter, along with the sifted confectioners sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the all purpose flour and salt. Mix on medium speed until everything is combined into a thick dough. It may take a minute or two.

Step 4: Incorporate Nuts

Fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out approximately one tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place each ball onto your prepared cookie sheet. Repeat this process until all dough is shaped into balls.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Place your cookie sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden on the bottom.

Step 7: Roll in Sugar

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool slightly before rolling each one generously in sifted confectioners sugar. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Wedding Cookies!

How to Serve Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

Mexican Wedding Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these cookies pair well with different beverages and occasions.

With Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the sweet buttery flavor of the cookies, making for a perfect afternoon snack.

At Holiday Parties

• These cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings and celebrations, adding a festive touch to your dessert table.

Gift Packaging

• Wrap the cookies in decorative boxes or tins as thoughtful gifts during special occasions or holidays.

With Tea

• Pairing Mexican Wedding Cookies with tea creates a soothing experience, perfect for relaxing afternoons.

As Dessert Bites

• Serve them on a platter as bite-sized desserts after dinner, allowing guests to enjoy them without guilt.

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How to Perfect Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

To ensure your Mexican Wedding Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

• Use room temperature butter – This helps create a smooth dough that will hold together well and bake evenly.
• Sift dry ingredients – Sifting flour and sugar ensures there are no lumps, leading to a better texture in your cookies.
• Don’t overmix – Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the dough – If you find the dough too sticky, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make it easier to handle while rolling.
• Bake until lightly golden – Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be light in color with just a hint of golden edges when done.
• Coat while warm – Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm allows for better adherence and enhances sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

When serving Mexican Wedding Cookies, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully with them. Each option adds variety to your dessert spread.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cookies with refreshing flavors.
2. Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream enhances the sweetness and adds creaminess to your dessert experience.
3. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat that’s fun for sharing.
4. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses contrasts beautifully with the sweet flavors of the cookies.
5. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy and crunchy side that complements the soft cookies.
6. Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the wedding cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Wedding Cookies can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Skipping Sifting: Not sifting your flour and powdered sugar can lead to clumps in the dough. Always sift for a smooth texture.
• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter instead of room temperature can stop the dough from mixing properly. Let your butter sit out before you start.
• Overmixing Dough: Mixing too much can make cookies tough. Beat just until ingredients are combined for a tender cookie.
• Not Chilling Cookies Before Baking: Skipping this step may cause cookies to spread too much. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better shape.
• Failing to Measure Accurately: Incorrect measurements can alter the texture and flavor. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe that might help clarify any uncertainties.

What makes Mexican Wedding Cookies different from regular cookies?

Mexican Wedding Cookies have a unique crumbly texture due to the use of nuts and powdered sugar, giving them a distinct flavor and melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Can I use other nuts in this Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden, while the centers remain pale. They will firm up as they cool.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

You can replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends to make these cookies gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

These Mexican Wedding Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their sweet buttery goodness paired with the crunch of nuts makes them irresistible! Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or using different nuts to create your own unique version.