Baking Pecan Wedding Cookies: A Step-By-Step Guide

Mexican wedding cookies, also known as pecan puffs, snowball cookies, or Italian nut balls, are a delightful treat for any occasion, especially weddings and holidays. These cookies are not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With a simple list of ingredients, including butter, sugar, flour, and pecans, you can create a batch of mouth-watering treats that will be loved by all. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with these melt-in-your-mouth, buttery, and nutty cookies!

How to prepare the ingredients

To make wedding cookies with pecans, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Butter, softened at room temperature
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Pecans, chopped into small bits
• Powdered sugar (also known as confectioner's sugar)
• Salt

Some recipes also call for:

• Cinnamon
• Almond extract
• Granulated sugar

Before you begin, take your butter out of the fridge or freezer and let it soften on the countertop for an hour or two. You'll need it to be soft and room temperature before you start making the dough.

To prepare your ingredients, start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining two baking sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper.

Next, you'll want to toast your pecans. Place them in a dry skillet over low heat and toast for about 5 minutes, or until they become fragrant. Alternatively, you can use a food processor or a sealed bag and a rolling pin to break them up into small bits.

Once your pecans are toasted and chopped, measure out the remaining ingredients as specified in your chosen recipe.

Now you're ready to start making the dough!

How to make the dough

To make the dough for wedding cookies with pecans, you'll need to cream together butter, sugar, and salt. Then, mix in vanilla extract. This will seem dry and sandy at first, but keep mixing and it will come together. Next, blend in flour. You can also add in cinnamon and almond extract for extra flavour. Finally, stir in the pecans.

• Butter
• Sugar (powdered or granulated)
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• Flour
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Almond extract (optional)
• Pecans

How to form the cookies

To form the cookies, start by scooping out the dough with a teaspoon and then roll it between your palms to form a ball. Place the ball of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Repeat this process until the baking sheet is filled.

The dough may be sticky, so you can pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up before you roll the cookies. You can also use a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop to scoop the dough, and then use your hands to roll it into balls.

Roll out the cookies into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. They will stay together once you roll them out.

How to bake the cookies

To make wedding cookies with pecans, start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining two baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper.

In a bowl, cream together softened butter, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Next, mix in vanilla extract and cinnamon, if desired. Then, slowly stir in your pecans, which should be chopped into small bits. You can also grate or pulse your pecans in a food processor to form a coarse meal.

Once combined, scoop out the dough and shape it into balls. Transfer these dough balls to your baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool. Finally, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. For an extra sweet coating, roll them in the sugar twice, letting the first layer melt and get sticky before applying the second. Store your cookies in an airtight container.

How to store the cookies

Wedding cookies with pecans, also known as Mexican wedding cookies, Italian nut balls, Russian tea cakes, snowballs, or snowdrops, are crumbly, buttery, and nutty. They are a delightful treat for any occasion and can be stored in several ways to maintain freshness. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store these cookies to ensure they stay delicious:

Storing the Cookie Dough:

Before baking, the cookie dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. If you want to store the dough for a more extended period, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap the dough log in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw the dough; simply add a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Storing Baked Cookies:

Once your wedding cookies with pecans are baked, you have several options for storage. At room temperature, the cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This option is suitable for short-term storage, keeping the cookies fresh and tasty. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Place the completely cooled cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper or wax paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Label the container with the date and ensure it is sealed tightly to protect the cookies from freezer burn. When you're ready to serve, let the cookies defrost completely before enjoying them.

Storing Decorated Cookies:

If you've decorated your wedding cookies with pecans, you'll want to take extra care to preserve their appearance. These cookies can be stored at room temperature for a few days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, and once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container with parchment paper or wax paper between the layers. This method will help maintain the shape and decorations of the cookies.

Tips for Optimal Freshness:

To ensure your wedding cookies with pecans stay fresh, follow these additional tips:

• Use airtight containers: Proper storage is essential to keep the cookies fresh and crunchy. Choose containers with tight-fitting lids to protect the cookies from moisture and maintain their texture.
• Store in a cool, dry place: The ideal storage location is somewhere cool and dry, such as a pantry or kitchen cabinet. Avoid storing the cookies in direct sunlight or areas with high humidity.
• Freeze for extended freshness: If you don't plan to serve the cookies right away, freezing is an excellent option. Place them in the freezer as soon as they have cooled to maintain their texture and flavour.
• Enjoy within the recommended time frame: For the best experience, consume the cookies within the suggested storage times. This will ensure you enjoy them at their freshest and most delicious state.

Frequently asked questions