Wedding Balls
Wedding Balls are sweet, nutty cookies coated in powdered sugar, perfect for special occasions or holiday treats. Their delicate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the flour and sift again.
- Add salt to the flour.
- Cream shortening, powdered sugar, and vanilla together.
- Mix with an electric mixer and add the flour and chopped nuts.
- Mix well and form into balls.
- Place the balls on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using a combination of half shortening and half unsalted butter. If you want to reduce sugar, you can cut the powdered sugar by a third without significantly affecting the dough. Mixing the dough by hand can also yield a different texture. If you have nut allergies, you can substitute chopped seeds or omit them entirely. Pair these cookies with a side of Strawberry-Melon Slaw for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful cookies as a sweet treat at weddings or holiday gatherings. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, present them on a decorative platter alongside other baked goods or alongside Sweet And Simple Coleslaw for a unique flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Wedding Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wedding Balls contains roughly 331 calories, with 5g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of chopped nuts you prefer, such as walnuts, pecans, or even almonds. Just keep in mind that each nut imparts its own flavor, which can change the overall taste of the cookies.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make Wedding Balls gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help maintain the structure and texture of the cookies while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until it comes together. This extra liquid will help bind the ingredients without compromising 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).