Mexican Wedding Cookies(Makes 2 Dozen)
Delightful Mexican wedding cookies are buttery, nutty, and coated with powdered sugar, perfect for celebrations or as a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixer, beat butter until fluffy.
- Slowly add all-purpose flour and mix well.
- Add finely ground pecans, 1/4 cup of confectioners sugar, and orange extract. Mix thoroughly.
- Use one level tablespoon of dough for each cookie and shape into balls.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Transfer baked cookies to a wire rack lined with wax paper.
- Dust the cookies generously with remaining confectioners sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans before grinding them. If you don't have orange extract, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute, although it will slightly change the flavor profile. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. For a different twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These Mexican Wedding Cookies pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a platter of other treats like the Quick Enchilada Casserole or Killer Bean Dip during gatherings. They also make a delightful addition to holiday dessert tables, adding a sweet and nutty contrast to richer desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to refresh their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Wedding Cookies(Makes 2 Dozen) contains roughly 132 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds. However, keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly. Make sure to finely grind the nuts to maintain the texture of the cookies.
Why are my cookies not staying in ball shape?
If the dough is too soft, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping the cookies. This will help them hold their shape better while baking.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you choose has a good binding agent to maintain the texture of the cookies.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).