Introduction
Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Russian Tea Cakes or Snowball Cookies, are a classic holiday treat that’s beloved for their simple ingredients, delicate texture, and melt-in-your-mouth flavor. These 5-Ingredient Mexican Wedding Cookies are a streamlined version of the traditional recipe, requiring just a handful of pantry staples to create a batch of these delightful, buttery cookies. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for coating
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out rounded tablespoons of the dough and roll them into balls.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are set and the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Place the extra powdered sugar in a shallow dish. While the cookies are still warm, roll them in the powdered sugar to coat them evenly.
- Transfer the coated cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll them in the powdered sugar again for a second coating.
Flavor Profile
These 5-Ingredient Mexican Wedding Cookies offer a delightful balance of rich, buttery flavor and delicate, crumbly texture. The combination of softened butter and powdered sugar creates a melt-in-your-mouth base that’s perfectly complemented by the nutty crunch of finely chopped pecans. The vanilla extract adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
As you bite into these cookies, you’ll experience a satisfying crumble that gives way to a tender, buttery interior. The double coating of powdered sugar not only adds a beautiful snowy appearance but also a delicate sweetness that melts on your tongue, creating a truly irresistible treat.
Serving Suggestions
These 5-Ingredient Mexican Wedding Cookies are perfect for enjoying in a variety of ways:
- Serve them alongside a cup of hot tea, coffee, or cocoa for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Include them on a holiday cookie platter or gift them in festive tins or bags to friends, family, or coworkers.
- Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a simple, yet elegant dessert.
- Crush them over yogurt or oatmeal for a delicious, cookie-inspired breakfast or snack.
Variations
- Almond Mexican Wedding Cookies: Substitute the pecans with finely chopped almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Mexican Wedding Cookies: Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the flour for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Lemon Mexican Wedding Cookies: Add 1 tbsp of lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy note.
- Gluten-Free Mexican Wedding Cookies: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these delectable cookies.
Conclusion
These 5-Ingredient Mexican Wedding Cookies are a testament to the fact that sometimes the most delicious treats are the ones with the simplest ingredients. With their rich, buttery flavor, delicate texture, and irresistible powdered sugar coating, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire.
Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a special occasion or simply satisfying a cookie craving, these Mexican Wedding Cookies are a delightful choice. Their ease of preparation and minimal ingredient list make them accessible to bakers of all skill levels, while their timeless flavor and elegant appearance make them perfect for sharing with loved ones.
So the next time you’re in need of a simple, yet impressive treat, give these 5-Ingredient Mexican Wedding Cookies a try. Your taste buds (and your cookie jar) will thank you!