Name: Mexican Wedding Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, plus more for rolling; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (120g) finely chopped pecans or walnuts; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as polvorones or snowball cookies, are delicate, buttery shortbread-style cookies coated generously in powdered sugar. They have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich nutty flavor that makes them a favorite during holidays, weddings, and festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple yet produces an elegant cookie with timeless appeal. The combination of buttery richness, finely chopped nuts, and a sweet powdered sugar coating makes each bite indulgent without being overly sweet. These cookies store well, making them an excellent choice for gifting or preparing ahead of time. Additionally, they require minimal ingredients and no complicated steps, making them accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar), plus extra for coating
All-purpose flour
Vanilla extract
Chopped nuts (traditionally pecans, but walnuts or almonds can be used)
Salt

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add flour and salt until well combined.
Stir in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
Shape the dough into small 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
Allow cookies to cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
Once fully cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a complete snowy coating.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 30 cookies.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Cooling and coating time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use almonds or walnuts instead of pecans for a different nut flavor.
Add a hint of cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice note.
Replace vanilla with almond extract for a more aromatic variation.
Incorporate finely chopped dried fruit for a festive twist.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. To freeze, place baked and cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, then roll again in powdered sugar before serving if needed. These cookies do not require reheating, as they are best enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Why are they called Mexican Wedding Cookies?

They are believed to have been served at weddings and celebrations in Mexico, but similar versions exist worldwide under different names.

2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to a week in advance and store them in an airtight container.

3. Do I have to use pecans?

No, you can use almonds, walnuts, or even hazelnuts as substitutes.

4. How fine should the nuts be chopped?

They should be finely chopped but not ground into a powder, to maintain texture.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, the recipe can be doubled without altering the baking time.

6. Why do I roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?

The first coating sticks better while the cookies are warm, and the second ensures a thick, snowy finish.

7. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

8. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough if it feels too soft before baking.

9. Can I add chocolate to the recipe?

You can mix in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a twist.

10. Why are my cookies crumbly?

These cookies are naturally delicate, but excessive dryness may occur if too much flour is added or the dough is overmixed.

Conclusion

Mexican Wedding Cookies are a timeless treat that combine a buttery shortbread base with a snowy coat of powdered sugar. Whether served at a wedding, holiday gathering, or enjoyed with afternoon tea, they bring a touch of elegance to any occasion. Their ease of preparation and long shelf life make them a reliable favorite for both everyday indulgence and special celebrations