Mexican Wedding Christmas Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
What kind of recipe is it?
Mexican Wedding Christmas Cookies are delightful, buttery treats that showcase the perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavors, typically made with finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds.
These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are coated in a generous dusting of powdered sugar, giving them a festive appearance ideal for holiday celebrations.
Easy to prepare and loved by all ages, they make a charming addition to any Christmascookie platter, perfect for gatherings with family and friends or as heartfelt homemade gifts.
These ingredients come together to create the rich, delightful flavor and texture characteristic of Mexican Wedding Christmas Cookies.
Cooking Steps
Preheat the oven to 175 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center.
Line two baking sheets (approximately 30 x 40 cm or 12 x 16 in) with parchment paper. Alternatively, grease the baking sheets lightly with unsalted butter.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks, 240 g) of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup (100 g) of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Gradually stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon of salt while mixing on low speed until incorporated.
Slowly add in 2 cups (240 g) of all-purpose flour, mixing on low until just combined; the dough will be crumbly.
Fold in 1 cup (100 g) of finely chopped nuts (pecans or almonds) using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Using your hands, form the dough into small balls, about 2.5 cm (1 in) in diameter, and place them 5 cm (2 in) apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until the bottoms are lightly golden and the tops are set (the cookies shouldn’t darken considerably).
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes; their bottoms will firm up during this time.
Dust the still-warm cookies generously with powdered sugar (approximately 1 cup (120 g)) using a sifter or a fine mesh sieve.
Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely, at least 30 minutes, before dusting with more powdered sugar for serving, if desired.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature; the flavors develop and improve after a day of resting.
Enjoy within 1 week for ideal freshness.
Variations
Cocoa Nutty Surprise: Add ¼ cup (30 g) of unsweetened cocoa powder to the flour for a chocolatey twist, complementing the nuts.
Vegan Delight: Swap the butter for 1 cup (240 g) of coconut oil and substitute with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds + 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of using regular eggs for a plant-based version.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Replace all-purpose flour with 2 cups (240 g) of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a gluten-free cookie suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Spiced Holiday Treats: Incorporate 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg into the dough for a festive spiced flavor perfect for the holiday season.
Tips on plating and presentation
While plating your Mexican wedding Christmas cookies, I recommend choosing a festive platter that complements their delicate appearance. A vibrant red or green platter can enhance the Christmas vibe, while a rustic wooden board adds a charming touch.
Layer the cookies using different sizes for visual interest—start with larger cookies in the center and work your way out with smaller ones. Consider adding edible decorations like sprigs of rosemary or dusted icing sugar to create contrast.
If you’re feeling creative, tuck in some cinnamon sticks or holly berries around the cookies for a holiday feel. Finally, remember to leave some space between cookies; it not only looks appealing but keeps them intact for guests to grab easily.
What other dishes can I pair it with?
If you’re looking to create a festive spread for your gathering, consider pairing your Mexican wedding Christmas cookies with traditional holiday dishes.
One of my favorites is tamales; their savory richness beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cookies. You can also add some enchiladas, filled with cheese or chicken, which brings a warm, comforting touch.
For a bit of crunch, try a vibrant, fresh salsa or a zesty guacamole. Serving up a colorful salad with pomegranate seeds adds a delightful pop against the cookies’ white powdered sugar.
These combinations not only elevate your cookie presentation but also keep your guests happily nibbling throughout your celebration!
What drinks can I pair it with?
What drinks can really complement the delightful flavors of Mexican wedding Christmas cookies?
I find that a warm cup of spiced chai tea creates a cozy pairing. The aromatic spices in the chai bring out the nutty flavors of the cookies beautifully.
If you’re in the mood for something cooler, a glass of horchata is fantastic; the creamy rice milk and cinnamon balance the sweetness perfectly.
For a festive touch, you can’t go wrong with mulled wine, which adds warmth and a hint of fruity spice.
And if you want a non-alcoholic option, a simple sparkling apple cider gives a revitalizing contrast.
Each of these choices enhances the delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience of the cookies.
Cheers to delicious pairings!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can These Cookies Be Made Gluten-Free?
Yes, I’ve made these cookies gluten-free! I simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend, and they turn out just as delicious. You won’t even notice the difference in taste or texture!
How Long Do the Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week if stored in an airtight container. I like to keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their delightful texture and flavor for as long as possible.
Can I Freeze These Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! I wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They stay delicious for up to three months, ready for whenever I want a sweet treat.
What Is the Origin of Mexican Wedding Cookies?
Mexican wedding cookies originated in medieval Europe, but they gained popularity in Mexico and Latin America, often served at weddings. Their delightful flavors and crumbly texture make them a favorite for many festive celebrations.
Are There Nut-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
I often substitute nut flours with oat flour or sunflower seed flour to keep things nut-free. It still gives a delightful texture, and I love how the flavor turns out just as delicious!
