Mexican Wedding Cookies (Snowball Cookies)

Mexican Wedding Cookies (Snowball Cookies) 

Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Snowball Cookies, are a timeless treat enjoyed across the globe. With their delicate, crumbly texture and a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Their origins, while debated, are commonly associated with celebrations and special occasions, making them a staple in many households during the holidays. This article will explore the history, ingredients, and recipe of Mexican Wedding Cookies.

A Brief History

The exact origins of Mexican Wedding Cookies are somewhat unclear, with similar cookies found in many cultures under various names. In Mexico, these cookies have been a part of wedding celebrations for generations, symbolizing the sweetness and joy of the occasion. However, variations of this cookie also appear in Russian, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, where they are known as Russian Tea Cakes, Italian Butterballs, and Kourabiedes, respectively. Despite the different names and slight variations in recipes, the essence of these cookies remains the same: a rich, buttery flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

The simplicity of Mexican Wedding Cookies is part of their charm. They are made with a handful of basic ingredients that come together to create something truly special:

Butter: The foundation of the cookie, giving it a rich flavor and tender crumb

.Powdered Sugar: Used both in the dough and for coating the cookies after baking, this ingredient adds sweetness without making the cookies overly sugary

.Flour: Provides structure to the cookies, balancing out the richness of the butter

.Nuts: Traditionally, pecans are used, but walnuts or almonds are also popular choices. The nuts add a subtle crunch and a deep, nutty flavor

.Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm, aromatic note.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

.1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

.1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling

.1 teaspoon vanilla extract

.2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

.1 cup finely chopped pecans (or walnuts/almonds)A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.

 Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, salt, and chopped nuts to the butter mixture. Stir until the dough comes together. It may seem crumbly at first, but it should come together with a little mixing.

Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are just lightly browned. The tops should remain pale.

Cool and Roll in Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. While they are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar until fully coated. If desired, you can roll them a second time once they are completely cool for an extra snowy appearance.

Enjoy: These cookies are perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, or as a sweet treat at any celebration.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Wedding Cookies

Don’t Overbake: These cookies should remain pale on top, with only a slight golden color on the bottom. Overbaking can cause them to become too dry

.Cool Before Rolling: While rolling them in powdered sugar when they’re warm helps the sugar stick, rolling them again once they’re cool gives a more generous coating and the classic “snowball” appearance

.Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for up to three months.

Conclusion

Mexican Wedding Cookies are a delightful treat with a rich history and a flavor that has been beloved for generations. Whether you're making them for a special occasion, a holiday celebration, or just to enjoy with your loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any table. Their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make them a perfect recipe for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Enjoy these sweet, nutty, and buttery cookies that melt in your mouth, and share the love with friends and family!