Mexican Wedding Cookies

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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.

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