Italian Wedding Cookies Recipe: Soft, Buttery, and Perfect for Gifting
These Italian wedding cookies, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or butterballs, are melt-in-your-mouth treats made with simple ingredients like butter, confectioners' sugar, almonds, and vanilla. Rolled in powdered sugar while still warm, they’re a festive addition to any occasion and make excellent gifts. This classic recipe is easy to follow and yields 80 delicate cookies perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- Butter : Three sticks of unsalted butter form the base of these cookies giving them their signature richness.
- Confectioners’ sugar : This sweet powdery ingredient ensures the cookies are soft and delicate.
- Salt : Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors without making the cookies salty.
- Almonds : Finely ground almonds add a nutty depth that makes these cookies unforgettable.
- Vanilla extract : A generous splash of vanilla ties everything together with warmth and aroma.
- Flour : All-purpose flour provides structure keeping the dough firm but tender.
- For rolling you’ll also need extra confectioners’ sugar to give the cookies their iconic snowy coating.
Instructions
- Prep Like a Pro: Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is your moment to channel your inner baker—tie that apron, clear your counter, and let’s get started!
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt until smooth and creamy. Think of it as creating a blank canvas for all the flavors to shine.
- Add the Good Stuff: Mix in the ground almonds and vanilla extract. These two ingredients are the heart and soul of the cookies, bringing warmth and nuttiness that’ll make your kitchen smell amazing.
- Bring It All Together: Gradually blend in the flour until the dough comes together. It should be crumbly but hold its shape when pressed. Don’t overmix—this isn’t the time for perfectionism!
- Shape and Bake: Scoop out teaspoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls (or crescents if you’re feeling fancy). Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each cookie. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden around the edges.
- Roll in Sweetness: While the cookies are still warm, roll them in confectioners’ sugar. This step is crucial—the warmth helps the sugar stick, creating that beautiful snowy finish.
Notes
- Storage : Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Freezing : Freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Customizations : Substitute almonds with pecans or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile. Shape into crescents if desired.