Italian Wedding Cookies, also known as “Snowball Cookies” or “Russian Tea Cakes,” are delicate, melt-in-your-mouth treats that are a favorite at weddings and festive occasions. These cookies are made with finely chopped nuts, a hint of vanilla, and are rolled in powdered sugar.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar for rolling

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, salt, and chopped nuts, mixing until well combined.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden.
7. Cool cookies and roll them in powdered sugar.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 119
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 6g
• Sodium: 20mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g

The Rich Tradition of Italian Wedding Cookies

Italian Wedding Cookies, also known as Snowball Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes, are a beloved treat enjoyed in many cultures around the world. While their name suggests they are exclusively served at weddings, these cookies are actually popular for various celebrations, including Christmas, birthdays, and family gatherings. Their delicate texture, buttery flavor, and generous dusting of powdered sugar make them an irresistible indulgence.

The History Behind Italian Wedding Cookies

Although the exact origins of Italian Wedding Cookies remain uncertain, they have been a part of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Some historians believe that these cookies originated from Middle Eastern and European influences, with the use of nuts and simple, yet rich, ingredients being a hallmark of these regions’ culinary traditions.

Over time, Italian immigrants brought their cherished recipes to America, where they became a staple in Italian-American bakeries and homes. These cookies are traditionally served at weddings as a symbol of prosperity, love, and happiness. Their powdered sugar coating represents purity, while the nuts inside signify the strength of the couple’s bond.

Why Italian Wedding Cookies Are So Popular

One of the reasons Italian Wedding Cookies have maintained their popularity is their simplicity and versatility. They require only a handful of ingredients, yet their texture and flavor are truly remarkable. Their small, round shape and powdered sugar coating make them visually appealing, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table. Another reason for their enduring appeal is their melt-in-your-mouth texture. The combination of butter, finely chopped nuts, and flour results in a delicate, crumbly bite that dissolves effortlessly on the tongue. They are not overly sweet, which makes them an ideal companion to tea, coffee, or an after-dinner treat.

Variations of Italian Wedding Cookies

Although the classic Italian Wedding Cookie recipe uses walnuts, pecans, or almonds, many variations exist across different cultures. Some recipes incorporate hazelnuts or pistachios for a unique flavor, while others add cocoa powder to create a chocolate version. A few recipes also include citrus zest, cinnamon, or even liqueurs such as Amaretto or Limoncello to enhance the taste. Another variation involves using different types of coatings. While powdered sugar is the most common, some people prefer rolling the cookies in finely ground nuts or dipping them in melted chocolate for an extra layer of decadence. Regardless of the variation, the fundamental essence of the cookie remains the same – a delicate, nutty, and buttery delight.

Perfect Occasions for Serving Italian Wedding Cookies

Despite their name, Italian Wedding Cookies are not reserved solely for weddings. These cookies are frequently enjoyed during holidays, particularly Christmas, when they are often included in festive cookie platters. They also make an excellent choice for birthdays, baby showers, and other special occasions where guests appreciate a small, sweet bite-sized treat.

Baking Tips and Techniques

• Use High-Quality Butter: The richness of the cookies depends on the quality of the butter, so opt for unsalted, high-fat butter for the best flavor.
• Finely Ground Nuts: For the smoothest texture, grind the nuts finely but avoid turning them into a paste. A food processor works well for this step.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and prevents them from spreading too much.
• Even Baking: Bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. The cookies should be lightly golden on the bottom but not browned on top.
• Double Powdered Sugar Coating: Roll the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm for the first layer, then again once they have cooled completely for a perfect, snowy finish.

Storing and Preserving Italian Wedding Cookies

One of the best things about Italian Wedding Cookies is their excellent shelf life. When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies can last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a month or frozen for three months. If freezing the cookies, it is best to freeze them before rolling them in powdered sugar. Once they are thawed, they can be dusted with fresh powdered sugar to maintain their signature appearance and texture.

Tips for Making the Best Italian Wedding Cookies

To achieve the perfect Italian Wedding Cookies, here are some expert tips:

• Use high-quality butter: Since butter is a primary ingredient, using high-quality, unsalted butter will result in a richer flavor and a better texture.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Finely chop the nuts: The texture of the cookies depends on finely ground nuts. Using a food processor ensures a consistent texture without large chunks.
• Coat while warm: Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar while they are still warm helps the sugar adhere better, creating the signature snowball-like appearance.
• Double coat for extra sweetness: After the cookies have cooled, rolling them in powdered sugar again enhances their sweetness and gives them a beautiful, snowy finish.

Conclusion

Italian Wedding Cookies are a delightful treat that has stood the test of time. Their rich history, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and simple yet elegant appearance make them a favorite in many households. Whether you are serving them at a wedding, during the holidays, or simply as a sweet indulgence with your afternoon coffee, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. By experimenting with different nuts, flavors, and coatings, you can create a personalized version of this classic cookie that perfectly suits your taste. With proper storage, these cookies can be enjoyed for weeks, making them an excellent make-ahead treat for any occasion. Their timeless appeal and delicious flavor ensure that Italian Wedding Cookies will remain a cherished tradition for generations to come.