Are you craving a melt-in-your-mouth cookie that's both festive and surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! These gluten-free Mexican wedding cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their delicate texture and irresistible powdered sugar coating make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the best part? They're surprisingly easy to whip up, even for beginner bakers. This recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional recipes, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or those simply seeking a healthier option without compromising on taste. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cookies with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (I recommend one with xanthan gum already included)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for coating
Instructions:
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Cream Together Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer, but you can do it by hand if you're feeling ambitious!
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Add Vanilla and Mix: Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour and salt.
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Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
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Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
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Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Shape the Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
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Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them as ovens vary!
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Cool and Coat: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, toss them gently in the powdered sugar until thoroughly coated.
Tips for the Best Gluten-Free Mexican Wedding Cookies:
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Use a Good Gluten-Free Flour Blend: The quality of your gluten-free flour blend will significantly impact the texture of your cookies. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum, which helps to bind the ingredients and create a better texture.
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Don't Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
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Chill the Dough Thoroughly: Chilling the dough is essential for preventing spreading and ensuring that your cookies hold their shape.
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Adjust Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Add a hint of almond extract: Substitute the vanilla extract with almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts: Before baking, press a few chopped pecans or walnuts into the top of each cookie for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate: Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle them with melted dark, milk or white chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 6-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Protein: 1g
These delicious and easy gluten-free Mexican wedding cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade baking with this delightful recipe, perfect for any occasion or simply a sweet treat for yourself! They are a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for a quick dinner idea or a festive gathering. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade cooking!