Mexican Classics - Polvorones Recipe

Polvorones, often called Mexican wedding cookies, are a delightful melt-in-your-mouth treat that are popular around the world. These cookies are traditionally made with ground pecans and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, offering a rich and nutty taste accented by aromatic spices. They are crumbly and tender, with a texture that disintegrates effortlessly on the tongue. Polvorones are not only delicious but also simple and quick to prepare, making them perfect for impromptu gatherings or as a homemade gift. Despite their unassuming appearance, the deep flavors and enticing aroma captivate everyone who tries them. Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack or as a dessert after a meal with coffee, these cookies are sure to please. The recipe is flexible, allowing substitutions and creative variations, depending on dietary preferences or ingredient availability. For those interested in authentic culinary experiences, polvorones can bring a touch of Mexican tradition to your kitchen. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies can be an enjoyable activity for both novice and experienced bakers. Read on to discover the recipe and bring a taste of Mexico to your table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 100g butter, softened at room temperature
• 150g pecans (or walnuts as an alternative)
• 1 vanilla pod or 2 tsp powdered sugar with vanilla
• 4 tbsp powdered sugar + 100g for dusting
• 150g all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder or 1/4 tsp baking soda

Spices

• 1 tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp for dusting

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened **butter** with 4 tablespoons of powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy and smooth.
3. Finely ground the pecans in a food processor or chop them thoroughly with a knife.
4. Slowly incorporate the ground pecans into the butter mixture, stirring gently to evenly distribute.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder, then gradually add to the butter and pecan mixture, mixing thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms.
6. Scoop small portions of the dough and roll into balls the size of a walnut.
7. **Flatten** each ball slightly with your palms to form a disc shape.
8. Place the discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the edges are just barely golden but the tops are still pale.
10. While the cookies are baking, prepare a dusting mixture by combining the remaining powdered sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
11. Remove the baked cookies from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
12. While still warm, coat each cookie generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring all sides are covered.
13. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack, allowing the coating to set.
14. Store in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
15. Enjoy as is or alongside a warm beverage such as coffee or hot chocolate.
16. Observe how the cookies melt in your mouth, releasing their sweet and spicy aroma.
17. For a festive touch, shape the dough into stars or other cookie cutter shapes before baking.
18. Consider adding a dash of nutmeg to the flour mixture for added warmth.
19. To personalize the recipe, experiment with other nuts or add a hint of citrus zest.
20. This timeless recipe ensures a delightful experience, even if the look is simple, the flavor will surprise and delight.

Tips

• For a finer texture, ensure butter is thoroughly softened before beating.
• Experiment with replacing pecans with almonds or pistachios for a different nutty flavor.
• If you only have salted butter, omit additional salt from the recipe.
• Use a cookie scoop for even sizes, which aids in consistent baking time.

Nutrition

Calories: 200 per cookie | Protein: 2g | Fats: 14g | Carbs: 20g

Variations

• **Gluten-Free**: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
• **Vegan**: Substitute butter with a plant-based margarine.
• **Low-Sugar**: Use a sugar substitute suitable for baking, such as stevia or erythritol.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with espresso or tea for an elegant afternoon delight.
• Adorn with edible flowers for a beautiful presentation at events.
• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.

Best Places

• La Casa de los Abuelos - Traditional Mexican sweets served in a welcoming atmosphere. Location: Paseo de la Reforma 222, Mexico City, Mexico.
• El Bajio - Renowned for authentic and rich Mexican flavors. Location: Av Cuitlahuac 2709, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Dulceria de Celaya - A historic candy shop known for its vast selection of Mexican desserts. Location: Calle de Donceles 46, Mexico City, Mexico.
• La Panadería de la Abuela - Offers freshly baked traditional and contemporary pastries. Location: Mercado de San Juan, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Café de Tacuba - Classic dishes in an ambient historic setting. Location: Tacuba 28, Centro Histórico, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Pastelería Ideal - Famous for its pastries and remarkable ambiance. Location: Calle 16 de Septiembre 18, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Nicos - Known for its focus on traditional, ingredient-focused cuisine. Location: Av. Cuitlahuac 3102, Mexico City, Mexico.
• El Cardenal - Celebrated for classic Mexican breakfast and desserts. Location: Av. de la Paz 32, San Angel, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Pujol - Innovative Mexican flavors with a contemporary twist. Location: Tennyson 133, Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Contramar - Known for its fresh ingredients and savory sweets. Location: Calle de Durango 200, Mexico City, Mexico.