Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie that crumbles in your mouth and leaves a sweet dusting of powdered sugar on your fingertips. Yep, I’m talking about Sanditas Mexican Cookies – those irresistible little snowball treats that are perfect for the holidays (or honestly, any time you’re craving something sweet).
These cookies aren’t just for weddings, despite the name. They’re a cozy, nostalgic dessert that feels like a warm hug from the past. Whether you grew up with them or you’re making them for the first time, I promise this recipe will have you hooked. Ready to bake up some magic? Let’s get started!
What Are Sanditas?
Sanditas are a simple yet delightful cookie with a rich, crumbly texture that almost melts in your mouth. Made with butter, powdered sugar, and chopped pecans, they’re rolled in confectioner’s sugar to give them a snowball-like appearance. These cookies go by many names, depending on where you’re from: Sanditas, Mexican Wedding Cookies, or even Snowball Cookies. Whatever you call them, their delicate flavor and texture make them irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Sanditas Mexican Cookies Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly and effortlessly.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or a sweet everyday treat.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or swap them out for sprinkles or chocolate for a fun twist.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These cookies store well, so you can bake them ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
Sanditas Mexican Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup 226 g butter, softened
- ½ cup 61.75 g powdered sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 2 cups 240 g all-purpose flour
- 1 cup 114 g chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon 4.7 g vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep Your Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. This creates the buttery base of the cookies.
- Mix in the Flour and Vanilla:Add the flour and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not
- to overmix, as this can affect the cookies’ delicate texture.
- Roll Into Balls: Using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into small balls with your hands. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake for approximately 12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
- Roll in Powdered Sugar: Let the cookies cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm. Once they’re completely cooled, roll them again for that perfect snowy finish.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Freeze baked cookies or cookie dough for up to 3 months.
- Nuts: Use pecans for a nutty flavor, or omit for nut-free cookies.
- Dusting: Re-roll cookies in powdered sugar before serving for a festive, snowy appearance.
- Egg-Free: These cookies are naturally egg-free, making them ideal for those with allergies.
Photos by Add a Pinch.
Tips for Perfect Sanditas
- Use Softened Butter: This helps create a smooth, creamy dough.
- Chill the Dough: If your kitchen is warm, chilling the dough for 15 minutes can make it easier to roll into balls.
- Double the Sugar Coating: Rolling the cookies twice ensures a perfect snowball look and adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.
Recipe Variations
Love to mix things up? Try these fun twists on the classic recipe:
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts entirely or replace them with sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Chocolate Surprise: Place a small piece of chocolate (like a Hershey’s Kiss) in the center of each cookie before baking.
- Peppermint Magic: Add crushed peppermint candies for a holiday flavor boost.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- To Store: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- To Freeze Baked Cookies: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Roll them in fresh powdered sugar before serving.
- To Freeze Cookie Dough: Shape the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a container or zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
A Cookie for Every Occasion
These Sanditas aren’t just cookies; they’re little bites of joy. Whether you’re making them for a Christmas cookie tray, a wedding celebration, or a simple weekend treat, they’ll always be a hit. Their delicate texture, buttery flavor, and snowy coating make them a timeless classic.
What’s your favorite memory with these cookies? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below! And if you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family.
Happy baking!
Looking for More Easy Mexican-inspired Recipes?
Here are some must-try recipes that bring authentic Mexican vibes to your kitchen:
- Mexican Chicken Drumsticks
- Easy & Flavorful Mexican Rice
- Mexican Cabbage Recipe: Your Tacos’ New Best Friend
- Pan-Seared Mexican Fish Recipe
- Jiffy Mexican Cornbread Recipe
- Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe
Give these recipes a try and bring the vibrant taste of Mexico to your table!
Tried This Recipe?
I’d love to hear how this Sanditas Mexican Cookies Recipe turned out! Leave a comment or tag @foodiecreator on Instagram, and #foodiecreator on social media to show off your creation.
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