Mexican Wedding Cookies

Name: Mexican Wedding Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup finely chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts); 1/4 teaspoon salt

By:

dani

Published:

November 3, 2025

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Mexican Wedding Cookies are those delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treats that sprinkle joy wherever they go. Imagine a gathering where laughter fills the air, and there’s a plate of these sugary wonders on the table—there’s something almost magical about that! Originating from Mexico, these buttery cookies blend tradition and taste, making them a beloved staple at weddings, holidays, and family celebrations.

When you take a bite, you experience the gentle crunch of the exterior followed by a soft, crumbly center that just begs for another taste. Plus, they’re rolled in powdered sugar, adding a sweet finish that makes them irresistible. Today, let’s whip up a batch together. I promise they’re simple to make, and soon you’ll be ready to share them with your family and friends—or keep them all to yourself while you enjoy a cozy day at home!

Ingredients

To start, gather everything you need. Here’s a quick list of the ingredients for Mexican Wedding Cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup finely chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
1/4 teaspoon salt

You might think, “That’s it?” Yes! The beauty of these cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a part, creating that signature flavor.

Preparing the Dough

Now that you’ve got your ingredients, it’s time to make the dough. Start with your softened butter. Grab a large mixing bowl and cream the butter and powdered sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial, as it creates that airy texture we love.

Once you’ve achieved that dreamy fluffiness, add in the vanilla extract. Mix it again to combine. Then, gradually incorporate the flour and salt. Make sure to blend it slowly to avoid a flour explosion in your kitchen! Finally, fold in the finely chopped nuts. They add that lovely crunch and flavor.

Chilling the Dough

Now, here’s where patience pays off. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, which means less spreading and more of that charming round form we adore.

While you wait, why not kick back with a book or catch up on your favorite show? Just remember to set a timer, so you don’t forget about those cookies!

Shaping the Cookies

Once the dough is nice and firm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Dust a clean surface with a bit of flour and take your dough out of the fridge.

Using your hands, take small portions of dough—about a tablespoon for each cookie—and roll them into balls. This step is a bit fun, as your hands will get a little sticky. Place them on the baking sheet about an inch apart.

Baking the Cookies

Pop your baking sheet into the oven and bake those beauties for around 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges start to golden slightly, but the tops should remain pale. The smell? Ah, pure bliss!

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes. This cooling period allows them to firm up just a bit.

Rolling in Sugar

This is the finishing touch that makes Mexican Wedding Cookies truly special! Once the cookies have cooled slightly, roll them in powdered sugar. Don’t be shy; cover them well! They should look like little snowballs, glistening with sweetness.

After rolling, let them cool completely on a rack. Now, they’re ready to be devoured. It’s hard to resist just one!

Storing Your Cookies

If you manage to have any leftovers (which is always a challenge!), store your cookies in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze them if you want to prepare ahead. Just remember to roll them in sugar after thawing, so they maintain that delightful snowy appearance.

Perfect Pairings

While enjoying your Mexican Wedding Cookies, consider pairing them with a warm beverage. A nice cup of coffee or a glass of milk makes for a delightful snack. You might even want to share some with friends, as they are sure to love them just as much as you do!

A Little History

Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Polvorones, have deep roots in Mexican culture. They often appear at weddings, holidays, and festivities. The tradition of sharing these cookies symbolizes love and happiness. While their history might vary, one thing is consistent: they bring people together and create sweet memories.

Variations to Try

Feeling a bit adventurous? You can mix things up with other flavor variations. Consider adding:

Green tea powder: Gives a unique flavor and an emerald hue.
Cocoa powder: For a chocolate twist, substitute a little flour with cocoa.
Spices: Adding a hint of cinnamon or cardamom can create enticing warmth.

Each modification keeps the essence of the original cookie while adding a personal touch.

Conclusion

Making Mexican Wedding Cookies is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that connects us with traditions and flavors that tell a story. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, they are sure to bring smiles. So gather your ingredients, invite a friend if you’d like, and make some memories in the kitchen. Happy baking! Enjoy those delightful cookies, and don’t forget to share (or not)!