There’s nothing quite like the joy of baking a batch of cookies, and for me, this classic recipe always brings a smile. Craving a classic, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat? Our Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar is your answer for that festive, buttery treat! Perfect for family gatherings, holiday platters, or just a cozy evening, these cookies bring joy without the fuss. We’ll show you how to whip up this delicious Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar, those beloved shortbread-like gems, rolled twice in snowy powdered sugar, for an irresistible dessert that always earns rave reviews. Get ready to bake a batch of pure happiness!

Table of Contents
Ingredient Highlights and Smart Substitutions for the Best Mexican Wedding Cookies
If you’re looking for that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth experience, this Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar delivers every time. These ingredients are key to a classic Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar, ensuring that delicate texture and rich flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (226g), softened. Provides richness and a tender crumb. For a premium touch, I sometimes use high-quality European butter, but your favorite store-brand works wonderfully.
- Powdered Sugar: 1/2 cup (60g) for the dough, plus 2-3 cups (240-360g) for rolling. Creates the signature melt-in-your-mouth texture in the dough and the iconic snowy coating.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (240g). Gives the cookies their structure. For a healthy upgrade, consider using half whole wheat pastry flour for a little extra fiber without compromising texture too much.
- Finely Chopped Pecans: 1 cup (113g), or walnuts. Adds a wonderful nutty flavor and slight crunch. Freshly ground nuts make a big difference, or you can toast them lightly before adding for an even deeper taste. Almonds or pistachios also make delicious variations for these family-friendly treats.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. Balances the sweetness.
Easy Cooking Instructions Step by Step for Perfect Mexican Wedding Cookies
Following these simple steps will ensure your Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar turns out beautifully. This easy dessert solution is perfect for quick meals or whenever a craving strikes!
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them tender.
- Chill the Dough: Gather the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This essential step prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and helps them hold their shape. This is also a great point for meal prep recipes, as you can chill the dough for up to 3 days!
- Shape and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should still look pale in the center.
- Roll in Powdered Sugar (First Pass): As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, while they are still warm, gently roll them generously in powdered sugar. The warmth helps the sugar adhere beautifully. I like to do this in a shallow bowl.
- Roll in Powdered Sugar (Second Pass): Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, roll them a second time in powdered sugar for that iconic snow-dusted appearance and an extra layer of sweetness. This double coating is what truly makes this Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar so special!
Shortcuts for Busy Cooks: For perfectly uniform balls every time, use a small cookie scoop. To save time on prep, chop your nuts in a food processor – just be careful not to over-process them into a paste.
Optional Notes: For a delicious nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract (if no almond allergy) or just more vanilla. If you need a dairy-free treat, a high-quality plant-based butter alternative can be substituted for the unsalted butter in this Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar.
Everyday Uses and Storage Advice for Mexican Wedding Cookies
These delightful Mexican Wedding Cookies are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic addition to many occasions. They’re ideal for holiday cookie exchanges, festive family gatherings, or simply as an easy homemade gift that everyone appreciates. I find they make a perfect sweet companion to my afternoon coffee or tea, turning a simple moment into a cozy treat.
For creative serving, consider them alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa on a chilly evening, as a simple yet elegant dessert after a family dinner, or as a star on a varied cookie platter. The snowy powdered sugar finish of this Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar always adds a touch of elegance.
When it comes to storage, cooled cookies should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer meal prep storage, you can freeze the un-dusted baked cookies for up to three months. Just roll them generously in powdered sugar after thawing, and they’ll be as fresh as if you just baked them.
Wellness & Lifestyle Benefits of this Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe
Homemade treats, like this Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar, offer wonderful wellness and lifestyle benefits. They allow for mindful portion control, meaning you can enjoy a delightful indulgence as part of a balanced diet. Knowing exactly what goes into your family’s treats is a great step towards healthier eating.
This recipe is also wonderfully adaptable, fitting various dietary needs. It’s naturally suitable for nut allergies if you omit the nuts, and can easily become gluten-free with suitable flour alternatives. For a dairy-free treat, simply use a high-quality plant-based butter alternative. These easy dessert solutions make it simple to cater to everyone at your table.

Recipe Value for Your Daily Goals with Mexican Wedding Cookies
This Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe brings significant value to your daily goals. Its straightforward nature, with minimal prep and bake time, makes it an easy choice for busy schedules, proving that delicious family dinners don’t always require hours in the kitchen. It’s truly a convenient and satisfying option!
Making cookies at home is also far more economical than buying gourmet bakery versions, allowing you to enjoy a premium taste on a budget. By controlling your ingredients and portions, you’re making a choice for healthier eating, enjoying a homemade treat you feel good about. The versatility of these Mexican Wedding Cookies makes them perfect for gifting, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving at home.
Expert Tips, Variations, and Safety Notes for Mexican Wedding Cookies
For perfect Mexican Wedding Cookies every time, ensure your butter is softened but not melted—this makes a big difference in texture. Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour; overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness we love. Chilling the dough thoroughly (as called for in our Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar) is also crucial to prevent spreading during baking and helps maintain their lovely round shape. Remember to roll cookies twice in powdered sugar for that iconic snow-dusted look and extra sweetness!
To vary the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough, or even a teaspoon of espresso powder for a subtle mocha twist. While pecans are traditional, walnuts, almonds, or finely chopped pistachios can also make delicious substitutions. For nut allergies, simply omit the nuts and use a nut-free flour blend if needed. Always double-check ingredient labels for cross-contamination if severe allergies are a concern.
FAQs About Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar
Can I prepare Mexican Wedding Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! The dough for these cookies can be made and refrigerated for up to three days, or even frozen for up to a month. Baked cookies can also be frozen before their final roll in powdered sugar, making this a great meal prep recipe.
Is Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar suitable for a high-protein diet?
While this Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar isn’t primarily a high-protein dish, it’s a delightful treat to enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For those focusing on high-protein snacks, you might enjoy these as an occasional indulgence after a protein-rich meal.
What are the best sides to serve with Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar?
These delicious cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, a soothing tea, a cold glass of milk, or a festive mug of hot chocolate. They are perfect on their own, too!
How long do Mexican Wedding Cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your Mexican Wedding Cookies will stay fresh and delicious for up to a week. They’re a fantastic easy dessert solution for any family dinner.
Can I use different nuts in Mexican Wedding Cookies?
Absolutely! Pecans are traditional, but walnuts, almonds, or even finely chopped pistachios can be delicious alternatives, adding a different twist to your Mexican Wedding Cookies. Feel free to experiment with your favorite!
Why are my Mexican Wedding Cookies crumbling?
This often happens if the dough is too dry or if the cookies are overbaked. Ensure your butter is properly softened and try not to overcook them; they should be just lightly golden at the edges.
Can I make them without powdered sugar for rolling?
While the powdered sugar coating is truly iconic for Mexican Wedding Cookies, you could certainly try a cinnamon-sugar mix for a different flavor profile if you prefer. However, that snowy finish is what makes them so special!
CONCLUSION
Our Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar delivers that perfect, easy-to-make, melt-in-your-mouth cookie experience your family will adore. They’re simple, satisfying, and always a hit, making them a staple for healthy eating or just a quick, delicious treat. So go ahead, bake a batch today, pin this recipe for later, or share it with a friend – you won’t regret making these family-friendly cookies!

Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe With Powdered Sugar
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Craving a classic, melt-in-your-mouth cookie? This easy Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with Powdered Sugar delivers a buttery, nutty, snowy treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (60g) Powdered Sugar, for the dough
- 2–3 cups (240-360g) Powdered Sugar, for rolling
- 2 cups (240g) All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup (113g) Finely Chopped Pecans, or walnuts
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Chill the Dough: Gather the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This essential step prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and helps them hold their shape.
- Shape and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the chilled dough into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should still look pale in the center.
- Roll in Powdered Sugar (First Pass): As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, while they are still warm, gently roll them generously in powdered sugar. I like to do this in a shallow bowl.
- Roll in Powdered Sugar (Second Pass): Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, roll them a second time in powdered sugar for that iconic snow-dusted appearance and an extra layer of sweetness.
Notes
Shortcuts: For perfectly uniform balls every time, use a small cookie scoop. To save time on prep, chop your nuts in a food processor – just be careful not to over-process them into a paste.
Substitutions: For a delicious nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract (if no almond allergy) or just more vanilla. If you need a dairy-free treat, a high-quality plant-based butter alternative can be substituted for the unsalted butter.
Nutrition Note: Nutritional data is an estimate as it was not provided in the original article.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe With Powdered Sugar