Mexican Wedding Cookies ❤️🍪 – Buttery, Nutty & Sweetly Dusted
Introduction
Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Polvorones or Snowball Cookies, are a classic treat that has been enjoyed for generations at weddings, holidays, and special family gatherings. These bite-sized delights are tender, buttery, filled with finely chopped almonds, and coated in a sweet layer of powdered sugar.
Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and snowy finish make them the perfect cookie for festive occasions—or for simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Día de los Muertos, or a wedding, these cookies bring joy to every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Buttery, nutty, and perfectly sweet
✅ Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
✅ Beautifully coated in powdered sugar for a festive look
✅ Great for gifting and holidays
Ingredients (Makes about 36 cookies)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons water
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped almonds (or pecans/walnuts)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup powdered sugar (or more for coating)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Gather the Ingredients
Make sure the butter is softened and the nuts are finely chopped before starting.
2. Make the Dough
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and water.
- Add flour, chopped almonds, and salt. Stir on low speed just until combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1–3 hours to firm up.
3. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 325°F (165°C).
4. Shape the Cookies
- Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls.
- Place them 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
5. Bake
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Carefully transfer cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely (20–30 minutes).
6. Coat with Powdered Sugar
- Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
- Roll each cooled cookie in the sugar until evenly coated.
- For an extra snowy look, roll them a second time once they’re fully cooled.
7. Store & Enjoy
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- These cookies stay fresh for up to 1 week and make beautiful gifts for friends and family.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Nut Options: Almonds are traditional, but pecans or walnuts also work beautifully.
- Double Coating: For a thicker snowy look, roll cookies once while warm and again when cooled.
- Make Ahead: Dough can be made 2 days ahead and refrigerated, or frozen for up to 1 month.
Nutrition (per cookie – approx.)
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 9g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
FAQs
1. Why are they called Mexican Wedding Cookies?
These cookies are often served at weddings and celebrations across Mexico. Their powdered sugar coating symbolizes purity and festivity.
2. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes—swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
3. How do I keep them from crumbling?
Be sure to let them cool completely before rolling in sugar, and handle them gently since they’re delicate.