Mexican Wedding Cake Cookies

Mexican wedding cake cookies, also known as Russian tea cakes or snowball cookies, are a classic treat enjoyed around the world. These delicate and melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of year.

Originating in Mexico, Mexican wedding cake cookies have a long and rich history. The cookies are believed to have been inspired by traditional Middle Eastern desserts, brought to Mexico by Spanish colonizers. Over time, the recipe evolved to incorporate local ingredients and flavors, resulting in the beloved cookie we enjoy today.

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While the name may suggest otherwise, Mexican wedding cake cookies are not actually a cake or part of a traditional Mexican wedding celebration. The name is thought to have been adopted due to the cookie's delicate appearance, resembling the elaborate white wedding cakes often served at weddings.

Mexican Wedding Cake Cookies

Here are 10 important points about Mexican wedding cake cookies:

• Shortbread-like dough
• Delicate and crumbly texture
• Coated in powdered sugar
• Walnut or pecan variations
• Perfect for special occasions
• Easy to make and store
• Originated in Mexico
• Also called Russian tea cakes
• Not actually a cake
• Resemble white wedding cakes

Mexican wedding cake cookies are a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are perfect for parties, weddings, and other special occasions, but they are also simple enough to make for a quick and easy dessert any day of the week.

Shortbread-like dough

One of the defining characteristics of Mexican wedding cake cookies is their shortbread-like dough. Shortbread is a type of cookie that is made with a high ratio of butter to flour, which gives it a crumbly and tender texture. Mexican wedding cake cookies have a similar texture, but they are typically made with a slightly lower ratio of butter to flour, which makes them a bit more delicate.

• High butter content: The high butter content in the dough gives Mexican wedding cake cookies their rich and buttery flavor.
• Low flour content: The low flour content makes the cookies delicate and crumbly.
• Creaming method: The butter and sugar are creamed together until light and fluffy, which helps to incorporate air into the dough and makes the cookies tender.
• Chilling the dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps to firm it up and prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

The combination of these factors results in a dough that is perfect for Mexican wedding cake cookies. The dough is easy to work with, and it produces cookies that are delicate, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Delicate and crumbly texture

One of the things that makes Mexican wedding cake cookies so special is their delicate and crumbly texture. This texture is achieved through a combination of factors, including:

Low gluten content: The dough for Mexican wedding cake cookies is made with a low-gluten flour, such as cake flour or pastry flour. This type of flour produces cookies that are more tender and crumbly than cookies made with a high-gluten flour, such as bread flour.

Creaming method: The butter and sugar are creamed together until light and fluffy. This process helps to incorporate air into the dough, which makes the cookies lighter and more delicate.

Chilling the dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps to firm it up and prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. This results in cookies that are more delicate and crumbly.

Baking at a low temperature: Mexican wedding cake cookies are baked at a low temperature, which helps to prevent them from browning too much and becoming dry. This results in cookies that are delicate and crumbly, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

The delicate and crumbly texture of Mexican wedding cake cookies makes them perfect for a variety of occasions. They are a popular choice for weddings, parties, and other special events, but they are also simple enough to make for a quick and easy dessert any day of the week.

Coated in powdered sugar

The final touch that makes Mexican wedding cake cookies so irresistible is their coating of powdered sugar. This coating gives the cookies a delicate sweetness and a beautiful white appearance.

There are two main ways to coat Mexican wedding cake cookies in powdered sugar. The first method is to roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm from the oven. This method results in a thin and even coating of sugar.

The second method is to toss the cookies in a bowl of powdered sugar after they have cooled completely. This method results in a thicker and more uneven coating of sugar. Some people prefer this method because it gives the cookies a more rustic appearance.

No matter which method you choose, be sure to use a fine-mesh sieve to ensure that the powdered sugar is evenly distributed. You can also add a little bit of cornstarch to the powdered sugar to help prevent it from clumping.

The coating of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness and beauty to Mexican wedding cake cookies, but it also helps to keep them fresh. The sugar coating creates a barrier that prevents the cookies from drying out.

Walnut or pecan variations

While the traditional Mexican wedding cake cookie is made with a plain shortbread dough, there are many variations on the recipe that incorporate different flavors and ingredients. Two popular variations are walnut Mexican wedding cake cookies and pecan Mexican wedding cake cookies.

• Walnut Mexican wedding cake cookies: Walnut Mexican wedding cake cookies are made with a dough that contains finely chopped walnuts. The walnuts add a nutty flavor and a bit of texture to the cookies.
• Pecan Mexican wedding cake cookies: Pecan Mexican wedding cake cookies are made with a dough that contains finely chopped pecans. The pecans add a slightly sweet and nutty flavor to the cookies.
• Combination of walnuts and pecans: Some recipes combine walnuts and pecans in the dough, creating a cookie with a complex and flavorful taste.
• Other nut variations: Other nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, can also be used to make Mexican wedding cake cookies.

No matter what type of nuts you use, be sure to chop them finely so that they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. You can also toast the nuts before adding them to the dough to enhance their flavor.

Walnut and pecan Mexican wedding cake cookies are a delicious and festive treat that is perfect for any occasion. They are easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you are looking for a sweet and satisfying treat, give these variations a try.

Perfect for special occasions

Mexican wedding cake cookies are a popular choice for special occasions such as weddings, parties, and holidays. There are several reasons why these cookies are so well-suited for these types of events:

• Beautiful appearance: Mexican wedding cake cookies are visually appealing, with their delicate white coating of powdered sugar. This makes them a perfect choice for events where presentation is important.
• Delicious taste: Mexican wedding cake cookies are not only beautiful, but they are also delicious. Their buttery, nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a crowd-pleaser.
• Easy to make: Mexican wedding cake cookies are relatively easy to make, even for beginner bakers. The dough is simple to prepare, and the cookies can be baked in a short amount of time.
• Can be made ahead of time: Mexican wedding cake cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This makes them a convenient option for busy hosts and hostesses.

Whether you are planning a wedding, a party, or a holiday gathering, Mexican wedding cake cookies are a surefire way to impress your guests. They are beautiful, delicious, and easy to make, and they can be customized to fit any occasion.

Easy to make and store

One of the best things about Mexican wedding cake cookies is that they are incredibly easy to make. The dough is simple to prepare, and the cookies can be baked in a short amount of time. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make Mexican wedding cake cookies:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the edges are just beginning to brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before rolling in powdered sugar.

Mexican wedding cake cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then, transfer the cookies to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, remove the cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for 1 hour.

The ease of making and storing Mexican wedding cake cookies makes them a great option for busy people who want to enjoy a delicious and festive treat.

Originated in Mexico

Mexican wedding cake cookies are believed to have originated in Mexico during the 19th century. The cookies are thought to have been inspired by traditional Middle Eastern desserts, which were brought to Mexico by Spanish colonizers. Over time, the recipe evolved to incorporate local ingredients and flavors, resulting in the beloved cookie we enjoy today.

• Spanish influence: Spanish colonizers introduced a variety of new ingredients and cooking techniques to Mexico, including butter, sugar, and flour. These ingredients became essential to the development of Mexican wedding cake cookies.
• Middle Eastern influence: Middle Eastern desserts, such as baklava and maamoul, are believed to have influenced the development of Mexican wedding cake cookies. These desserts are often made with a shortbread-like dough and are coated in powdered sugar.
• Local ingredients: Mexican wedding cake cookies also incorporate local ingredients, such as vanilla extract and pecans. These ingredients give the cookies a unique flavor that is distinctly Mexican.
• Cultural significance: Mexican wedding cake cookies are often associated with weddings and other special occasions in Mexico. The cookies are seen as a symbol of love, prosperity, and good luck.

While the exact origins of Mexican wedding cake cookies are unknown, it is clear that the cookies are a product of Mexico's rich culinary history. The cookies have been enjoyed by Mexicans for generations and have become a beloved part of the country's culture.

Also called Russian tea cakes

In addition to being known as Mexican wedding cake cookies, these delicious treats are also commonly referred to as Russian tea cakes. The reason for this is that the cookies are very similar to a traditional Russian dessert called снежки (snezhki), which means "little snowballs." Snezhki are made with a shortbread-like dough and are coated in powdered sugar, just like Mexican wedding cake cookies.

• Similar ingredients and preparation: Both Mexican wedding cake cookies and snezhki are made with a simple dough that contains flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. The dough is then rolled into small balls and baked until golden brown.
• Coating of powdered sugar: After baking, both types of cookies are coated in powdered sugar. This gives the cookies their signature white appearance and sweet flavor.
• Cultural differences: While Mexican wedding cake cookies and snezhki are similar in many ways, there are also some key differences between the two. Mexican wedding cake cookies are often flavored with vanilla extract, while snezhki are typically flavored with lemon zest. Additionally, Mexican wedding cake cookies are often served at weddings and other special occasions, while snezhki are more commonly enjoyed as a casual treat.

Despite their different names and origins, Mexican wedding cake cookies and Russian tea cakes are both delicious and festive treats that are enjoyed by people all over the world. Whether you call them Mexican wedding cake cookies, Russian tea cakes, or snezhki, these little snowballs of sweetness are sure to bring joy to your next gathering.

Not actually a cake

Despite their name, Mexican wedding cake cookies are not actually a cake. They are a type of cookie that is made with a shortbread-like dough and is coated inřen sugar. The cookies are often served at weddings and other special occasions, but they are not a traditional wedding cake.

• Lack of cake ingredients: Mexican wedding cake cookies do not contain any of the traditional ingredients found in a cake, such as flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Instead, they are made with a dough that is more similar to a shortbread cookie.
• Small size and shape: Mexican wedding cake cookies are small and round, and they are not typically baked in a cake pan. This is another indication that they are not a cake.
• Dense texture: Mexican wedding cake cookies are dense and crumbly, unlike a cake, which is typically light and fluffy.
• Name origin: The name "wedding cake cookies" is thought to have originated from the fact that the cookies are often served at weddings. However, this does not mean that they are actually a cake.

So, while Mexican wedding cake cookies may share some similarities with a cake, they are not actually a cake. They are a unique and delicious type of cookie that is perfect for any occasion.

Resemble white wedding cakes

One of the most striking features of Mexican wedding cake cookies is their resemblance to white wedding cakes. This is due to their delicate appearance and their coating of powdered sugar. When arranged on a plate, the cookies look like miniature versions of a traditional wedding cake.

• White color: The coating of powdered sugar gives Mexican wedding cake cookies their distinctive white color. This color is reminiscent of the white frosting that is often used on wedding cakes.
• Round shape: Mexican wedding cake cookies are typically round in shape. This shape is also similar to the round shape of many wedding cakes.
• Delicate appearance: Mexican wedding cake cookies are delicate and crumbly. This gives them a fragile appearance that is similar to the delicate appearance of a wedding cake.
• Use at weddings: Mexican wedding cake cookies are often served at weddings. This is another reason why they are associated with wedding cakes.

While Mexican wedding cake cookies are not actually a cake, their resemblance to white wedding cakes makes them a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions. They are a beautiful and delicious treat that is sure to impress your guests.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Mexican wedding cake cookies:

Question 1: What are Mexican wedding cake cookies?
Answer: Mexican wedding cake cookies are a type of cookie that is made with a shortbread-like dough and is coated in powdered sugar. They are often served at weddings and other special occasions.

Question 2: Are Mexican wedding cake cookies actually a cake?
Answer: No, Mexican wedding cake cookies are not actually a cake. They are a type of cookie that is made with a shortbread-like dough and is coated in powdered sugar.

Question 3: Why are Mexican wedding cake cookies called "wedding cake cookies"?
Answer: The name "wedding cake cookies" is thought to have originated from the fact that the cookies are often served at weddings. However, this does not mean that they are actually a cake.

Question 4: What are Mexican wedding cake cookies made of?
Answer: Mexican wedding cake cookies are typically made with a dough that contains flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. They are then rolled into small balls and baked until golden brown. After baking, the cookies are coated in powdered sugar.

Question 5: How do I make Mexican wedding cake cookies?
Answer: To make Mexican wedding cake cookies, you will need to follow a recipe. There are many different recipes available online. Once you have gathered your ingredients, you will need to mix together the dough and roll it into small balls. The cookies are then baked until golden brown and coated in powdered sugar.

Question 6: How do I store Mexican wedding cake cookies?
Answer: Mexican wedding cake cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Question 7: What are some tips for making Mexican wedding cake cookies?
Answer: Here are some tips for making Mexican wedding cake cookies:

• Use high-quality ingredients.
• Be sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Chill the dough before rolling it out.
• Bake the cookies until they are just golden brown.
• Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm.

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Now that you know more about Mexican wedding cake cookies, here are some tips for making them at home:

Tips

Here are some tips for making Mexican wedding cake cookies:

Tip 1: Use high-quality ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will have a big impact on the taste of your cookies. Be sure to use high-quality butter, sugar, and flour.

Tip 2: Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This will help to incorporate air into the dough, which will make the cookies light and tender.

Tip 3: Chill the dough before rolling it out. This will help to firm up the dough and prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

Tip 4: Bake the cookies until they are just golden brown. Overbaking the cookies will make them dry and crumbly.

Tip 5: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm. This will help the powdered sugar to adhere to the cookies.

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Conclusion:

Conclusion

Summary of Main Points:

• Mexican wedding cake cookies are a classic treat that is enjoyed around the world.
• They are made with a shortbread-like dough and are coated in powdered sugar.
• Mexican wedding cake cookies are often served at weddings and other special occasions.
• They are easy to make and can be customized to your own taste preferences.

Closing Message:

Mexican wedding cake cookies are a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are perfect for parties, weddings, and other special occasions, but they are also simple enough to make for a quick and easy dessert any day of the week. So next time you are looking for a sweet and satisfying treat, give Mexican wedding cake cookies a try.