Polvorones, also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies, are delightful treats perfect for the holiday season. These cookies are a traditional Mexican dessert enjoyed during Christmas celebrations. Their crumbly texture and nutty flavor make them a favorite among both young and old. They are simple to make and can be a lovely addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
Title: Polvorones Mexican Wedding Cookies
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup ground almonds or walnuts
– Additional powdered sugar for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or a stand mixer.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, mixing well until fully incorporated.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it is evenly distributed within the mixture.
5. Slowly add the flour to the mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be cohesive and not sticky.
6. Incorporate the ground almonds or walnuts into the dough. These nuts will add a rich flavor and a pleasant crunch to the cookies.
7. Using your hands, shape the dough into small, rounded balls or crescent shapes. The cookies should be about an inch in diameter.
8. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are set and just beginning to turn golden brown.
10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
11. While still warm, gently roll each cookie in powdered sugar until coated evenly. The warmth will help the powdered sugar adhere to the cookies.
12. Transfer the coated cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can give them another light dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
13. Store the Polvorones in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be layered between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
These Polvorones Mexican Wedding Cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday dessert table. Their buttery, nutty flavor and delicate texture will surely impress your friends and family. Enjoy them with a cup of hot chocolate or as a sweet treat on their own.
Prepare a batch of these cookies to celebrate the holiday season with a touch of Mexican culinary tradition. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for baking with loved ones, creating lasting memories in the kitchen. Share the joy of Polvorones with those you cherish and savor the festive flavors of the season.