Mexican Wedding Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 c.salted butter
softened
- 1 ½ c.powdered sugar
divided, plus more for dusting
- 2 tsp.vanilla extract
- 1 tsp.orange zest
finely chopped, optional
- ½ tsp.ground cardamom
optional
- 2 c.all-purpose flour
- 1 c.pecans
very finely chopped
Directions
- 1
To a large bowl, add the the softened butter, 3/4 cup powdered sugar, vanilla, orange zest, and cardamom, if using. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed, until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the flour and mix on low speed just until combined. Add the pecans and mix on low speed just until combined, scraping the bottom and sides of the bowl as needed.
- 2
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Position one oven rack in the top third of the oven, and the other rack in the bottom third of the oven. Scoop mounded tablespoonfuls of dough and roll each into a ball. Place about 2 inches apart on a baking sheet.
- 3
Bake just until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden, 20 to 22 minutes, rotating the baking sheet from the upper to lower rack halfway through. Let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring a few at a time to a bowl with the remaining 3/4 cup of powdered sugar. Dredge the cookies while they are warm, then transfer to a cooling rack set over a baking sheet to cool completely.
- 4
Once cool, sprinkle with additional powdered sugar, if desired. Store in an airtight container in a single layer, between layers of parchment paper, in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week.
Mexican Wedding Cookies
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About this Recipe
Looking for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth cookie for your next celebration? These delightful Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as snowballs, are a timeless treat guaranteed to charm any guest.
What sets this recipe apart is the thoughtful inclusion of crunchy pecans, bright orange zest, and fragrant cardamom, transforming a classic into something truly special. The combination of textures and warm, citrusy notes elevates the simple buttery cookie into an unforgettable experience.
You can anticipate a delicate, buttery cookie that practically dissolves on your tongue, leaving behind the delightful crunch of finely chopped pecans. The subtle citrusy brightness from the orange zest pairs beautifully with the warm, aromatic notes of cardamom, creating a sophisticated flavor profile that’s incredibly inviting. This quick recipe comes together surprisingly fast, making it an ideal choice for last-minute treats.
For a twist, you can swap the pecans for other finely chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds. If you're out of orange zest or prefer a simpler flavor profile, feel free to omit it, as both the zest and cardamom are optional additions. This allows you to customize the cookie to your liking or what you have on hand.
These elegant snowballs are ideal for holiday gatherings, baby showers, bridal showers, or as a sophisticated dessert at any dinner party. Their delicate appearance and exquisite flavor make them a welcome addition to any sweet spread.