Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply indulging yourself. Their unique combination of flavors from pecans and the sweetness of powdered sugar creates an irresistible dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers at any skill level.
• Deliciously Buttery: The rich flavor of butter combined with nuts makes every bite a heavenly experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for weddings, holiday parties, or just a cozy afternoon snack.
• Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily swap pecans for walnuts or add spices like cinnamon for a twist on the classic flavor.
• Make Ahead: These cookies store well, making them ideal for preparing in advance for events or treats throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience while making your Mexican Wedding Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes it easy to cream the butter and sugar together quickly and efficiently.
• Sifter: Sifting flour helps prevent lumps and ensures a light, airy cookie texture.
• Baking sheets: Using nonstick baking sheets prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.

Ingredients

Mexican Wedding Cookies, AKA Russian Tea Cookies, are butter pecan shortbread cookies coated in powdered sugar that melts in your mouth with sweet buttery goodness.

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)

How to Make Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350° F. Spray cookie sheets with nonstick cooking spray to ensure that your cookies won’t stick during baking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Place the room temperature butter in a stand mixer. Add the sifted confectioners’ sugar along with the vanilla and almond extracts. Beat until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture into the butter mixture while beating on medium speed. The dough will become thick; continue mixing until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Nuts

Add in the chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough. Mix gently until they are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place each ball on the prepared cookie sheet. Repeat this process until all dough is used.

Step 6: Bake

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

Step 7: Roll in Sugar

Allow baked cookies to cool slightly before rolling each one generously in sifted powdered sugar. This adds an extra layer of sweetness!

How to Serve Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

Mexican Wedding Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their sweet, buttery flavor and soft texture make them a perfect addition to any gathering or celebration. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pairing these cookies with a rich cup of coffee brings out the nutty flavors.
• Tea: A warm herbal tea complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Cookies: Include a variety of cookies such as chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin for a charming presentation.
• Fruit: Fresh berries or slices of citrus add color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

For Special Occasions

• Weddings: These cookies make an elegant addition to wedding dessert tables.
• Holidays: They are perfect for festive gatherings, adding a sprinkle of joy to holiday celebrations.

Gift-Wrapped

• In Boxes: Present them in decorative boxes for friends and family as thoughtful gifts.
• With Personal Notes: Add a handwritten note to each box for a personal touch.

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How to Perfect Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

To ensure your Mexican Wedding Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: This creates a smooth dough that incorporates ingredients more easily.
• Don’t Skip Sifting: Sifting flour and powdered sugar helps achieve the light texture these cookies are known for.
• Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft, chilling it for 30 minutes can help with rolling into balls.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Bake until just lightly golden; overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
• Roll in Sugar When Cool: Allowing the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them ensures the powdered sugar sticks better.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

While these cookies shine on their own, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can complement the richness of the cookies well.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie for an extra indulgent treat.
4. Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs wonderfully with these buttery cookies.
5. Whipped Cream: Serve alongside fresh whipped cream for added creaminess and flavor contrast.
6. Spiced Nuts: Crunchy nuts with a hint of spice provide texture and contrast to the soft cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Wedding Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold butter: This can lead to cookies that don’t hold their shape. Always use room temperature butter for the best texture.
• Skipping the sifting step: Not sifting flour can cause uneven mixing. Sift your flour and powdered sugar for a smoother dough.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Beat just until combined for a tender cookie.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin the balance. Use precise measurements for the best results.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Oven temperatures vary, which can cause undercooking or overbaking. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them into a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on low power.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, being careful not to burn them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe that might help you while making them.

What are Mexican Wedding Cookies?

Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cookies, are buttery shortbread treats filled with nuts and coated in powdered sugar. They melt in your mouth!

Can I use other nuts in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or even almonds based on your preference. Each nut adds its unique flavor.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be slightly golden brown while the center remains pale. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture.

How do I make these cookies more flavorful?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a dash of cocoa powder for variation in flavor!

Final Thoughts

Mexican Wedding Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile treats that bring joy to any occasion. Their buttery goodness paired with a sugary coat makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with different nuts or flavors to suit your taste!