Italian Wedding Cookies III Recipe: A Delightful Treat for All Occasions

Introduction

Italian Wedding Cookies have a special place in my heart. I remember my grandmother making them for every family gathering and special occasion. These cookies, also known as "butterballs" or "Mexican wedding cookies," are a staple at weddings, holidays, and celebrations in many cultures. Their delicate texture and rich, buttery flavor make them a favorite among cookie lovers. Today, I’m excited to share this Italian Wedding Cookies III recipe with you, which has been passed down through generations in my family. It’s a simple yet elegant treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe: Italian Wedding Cookies III

Brief Description: These traditional cookies are made with ground nuts, butter, and powdered sugar, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that's perfect for weddings and holidays.

Ingredients List

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely ground walnuts or pecans
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Substitutions:

If you prefer, you can substitute the walnuts or pecans with almonds or hazelnuts. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan butter substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Step 2: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour, ground nuts, and salt to the butter mixture, stirring until well combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops of the cookies should remain pale.

Step 6: Cool and Coat with Powdered Sugar

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat them generously. For an extra touch, you can roll them in powdered sugar a second time for a thicker coating.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes

Serving Suggestions

These Italian Wedding Cookies III are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With Coffee or Tea: Serve these cookies alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Holiday Platter: Add them to your holiday cookie platter for a festive touch.
• Party Favor: Package them in decorative bags or boxes to give as party favors at weddings or celebrations.
• Dessert Table: Include them on a dessert table at special events for a variety of treats.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 4g

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips:

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Reheating Instructions:

These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature. If you prefer to warm them slightly, you can place them in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts or pecans with almonds, hazelnuts, or even pistachios for a different flavor profile.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can be a great time-saver during busy holiday seasons.

Why do my cookies spread too much?

If your cookies spread too much during baking, it could be due to the dough being too warm. Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking. Also, check the accuracy of your oven temperature with an oven thermometer.

Conclusion

This Italian Wedding Cookies III recipe is a timeless treat that brings joy to any occasion. The delicate, buttery texture and sweet, nutty flavor make these cookies a favorite at weddings, holidays, and family gatherings. Give this recipe a try and bring a taste of tradition to your kitchen. We’d love to hear about your experience, so please leave a comment below and let us know how your cookies turned out. Follow DelishDigs for more delightful recipes and culinary inspiration!