Name: Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 7 min
Yield: 30
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup all purpose flour; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup confectioners' sugar; ⅓ cup pecans; ¼ cup sweetened flaked coconut; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 lime zest; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Experience the zest of a tropical breeze in every bite with these coconut-lime Mexican wedding cookies. Sweet, nutty, and delightfully crisp - these cookies are a twist on a classic favorite. The unique blend of lime zest and coconut lends a refreshing tanginess that balances the sweetness perfectly.

Photos of Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

The key ingredients in this recipe are lime zest and sweetened flaked coconut. While a lime is a common household item, the sweetened flaked coconut might require a visit to your local supermarket. Ensure you're picking up sweetened flaked coconut, not the unsweetened variety, as it contributes to the overall sweetness of the cookies.

Ingredients for Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies

All purpose flour: The base of the dough which gives structure to the cookies.

Salt: Helps balance the sweetness and enhances other flavors.

Confectioners' sugar: This fine sugar lends a delicate sweetness and a smooth texture. It's also used for dusting the cookies.

Pecans: These add a pleasant crunch and a rich, buttery taste.

Sweetened flaked coconut: Adds sweetness and a unique texture to the cookies.

Unsalted butter: Gives a rich and creamy taste, and helps in binding the ingredients.

Lime zest: It gives a refreshing tangy flavor that compliments the sweetness of the cookie.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and gives an aromatic touch.

One reader, Heather Colbert says:

This coconut-lime Mexican wedding cookies recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine, and the cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The zesty lime and sweet coconut create a perfect harmony, making these cookies a must-try for anyone who loves a tropical twist on a classic treat.

Heather Colbert

Key Techniques for Perfect Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies

How to prepare the dough: Combine the flour, salt, confectioners' sugar, pecans, and coconut in a food processor. Process until the mixture resembles sand. Add the butter, lime zest, and vanilla extract, and process until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic and chill until firm.

How to roll the dough into balls: Measure the chilled dough into heaping teaspoon-size pieces and roll each piece into a ball.

How to bake the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Place the rolled dough balls on the prepared baking sheets and bake until the edges barely begin to brown, for about 12 to 14 minutes.

How to coat the cookies with confectioners' sugar: Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheets, then roll them in confectioners' sugar while still warm. Let the cookies cool on a rack, then roll them again in confectioners' sugar once they are cool.

How to store the cookies: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. To serve, arrange the cookies on a platter and dust with more confectioners' sugar if desired.

How to freeze the cookie dough: Roll the dough into balls, let them set on a baking sheet in the freezer, then place them in a sealable bag and press out as much air as possible. Bake as needed directly from the freezer, allowing 1 to 2 minutes longer in the oven.

How to freeze the baked cookies: Let the cookies cool completely and store them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Before serving, remove the cookies from the container and let them come to room temperature.

How To Make Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies

Wedding cookies with classic Mexican flavors of lime and coconut make for a delicious, shortbread-like treat that’s brimming with flavors.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 12 minutes

Cool Time: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour 7 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupall purpose flour,spooned and leveled-off
¼tspsalt
½cupconfectioners’ sugar,plus about ¾ cup more for coating
⅓cuppecans
¼cupsweetened flaked coconut
½cupunsalted butter,(1 stick) softened
1tsplime zest,(from 1 lime), packed
1tspvanilla extract

Instructions

In the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade, combine the flour, salt, confectioners’ sugar, pecans and coconut. Process until the pecans and coconut are finely ground, and the mixture looks like sand.
Add the butter, lime zest, and vanilla extract; process until the mixture comes together into a cohesive dough. Remove the dough from the bowl and wrap in plastic.
Chill for 45 minutes to 1 hour until firm enough to roll.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Measure the dough into heaping teaspoon-sized pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Place the balls about 1½ inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges of the cookies barely begin to brown.
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheets, then roll in the confectioners’ sugar while still warm. Let the cookies cool on a rack, then roll again in confectioners’ sugar once they are cool.
Arrange the cookies on a platter and use a fine sieve to dust with more confectioners’ sugar. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature

Nutrition

Calories: 61.34kcal
Fat: 4.10g
Saturated Fat: 2.20g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.26g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.37g
Carbohydrates: 5.73g
Fiber: 0.30g
Sugar: 2.29g
Protein: 0.59g
Cholesterol: 8.13mg
Sodium: 21.95mg
Calcium: 2.52mg
Potassium: 12.79mg
Iron: 0.23mg
Vitamin A: 25.91µg
Vitamin C: 0.10mg

Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Texture in Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies

When making these coconut-lime Mexican wedding cookies, it's important to not over-process the dough in the food processor. Over-processing can lead to a tough cookie texture. Instead, pulse the ingredients until they are just combined and the dough comes together. This will ensure your cookies are tender and crumbly, just as they should be. Additionally, when rolling the warm cookies in confectioners' sugar, be gentle to avoid breaking them. The double roll in sugar gives these cookies their signature snowy look and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to make the recipe to streamline the process.

Chill the dough: While the dough is chilling, preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheets to save time.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly and efficiently grind the pecans and coconut for the dough.

Bake in batches: If your oven space allows, bake the cookies in batches to speed up the overall baking process.

Double the recipe: Consider doubling the recipe to make a larger batch of cookies, saving time on future baking sessions.

Store in airtight containers: Store the cookies in airtight containers to keep them fresh and easily accessible for serving.

Freeze the dough: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for future use, allowing for quick and convenient baking when needed.

Substitute Ingredients For Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe

all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: This substitution is suitable for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. It provides a similar texture and structure to the cookies.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: This low-calorie sweetener is a suitable alternative for those looking to reduce their sugar intake. It provides sweetness without the added calories.
pecans - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used as a substitute for pecans, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunch to the cookies.
sweetened flaked coconut - Substitute with unsweetened shredded coconut: This substitution reduces the overall sugar content in the recipe while still providing the desired coconut flavor and texture.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the cookies.
lime zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can be used as a substitute for lime zest, providing a similar citrusy aroma and flavor to the cookies.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can add a delightful nutty flavor to the cookies, complementing the other ingredients in the recipe.

Impressive Presentation Ideas for Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies

Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the coconut-lime Mexican wedding cookies on a pristine white plate, ensuring each cookie is evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Incorporate a touch of color: Garnish the plate with a few thin lime slices or a sprinkle of finely grated lime zest to add a pop of vibrant green, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the elegance of simplicity by allowing some empty space on the plate, creating a balanced and sophisticated presentation that draws attention to the cookies.
Add a touch of elegance with a dusting of confectioners' sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a fine layer of confectioners' sugar using a sieve, creating a delicate and refined finishing touch.
Pair with a complementary beverage: Serve the cookies alongside a refreshing coconut-infused beverage or a zesty lime-infused drink to enhance the overall sensory experience for the esteemed guests.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Mexican Wedding Cookies

Food processor: A food processor is used to finely grind the pecans and coconut and combine the ingredients for the cookie dough.
Baking sheets: Baking sheets are used to place the cookie dough balls for baking in the oven.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the baking sheets, preventing the cookies from sticking and making cleanup easier.
Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is used to wrap the cookie dough and chill it until firm enough to roll.
Fine sieve: A fine sieve is used to dust the cookies with confectioners' sugar for a decorative finish.

Storing and Freezing Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies: A Guide

Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming soggy, place a piece of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture.
If you want to freeze the cookie dough, roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container, pressing out as much air as possible. The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and bake directly, allowing an extra 1-2 minutes in the oven.
To freeze the baked coconut-lime mexican wedding cookies, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container, separating the layers with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, remove the cookies from the container and let them come to room temperature before dusting with confectioners' sugar, if desired.
If you have leftover lime zest, you can freeze it for future use. Place the zest in a small freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months. When ready to use, thaw the zest in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Fascinating Fact About Mexican Wedding Cookies

The Mexican wedding cookies are also known as Russian tea cakes or butterballs. They are a traditional dessert in Mexico and are often served at weddings and other special occasions.

Is Making Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this coconut-lime Mexican wedding cookies recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients are relatively affordable and commonly found in households. The use of pecans and coconut may slightly increase the cost, but the yield of cookies makes it a cost-effective treat. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $8-$10. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Are Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The coconut-lime Mexican wedding cookies recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The recipe is high in saturated fat from the butter and coconut, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
The cookies are also high in added sugars from the confectioners' sugar, which can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
The recipe is low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, as it primarily consists of refined flour, sugar, and fat.

However, the recipe does include some healthier ingredients, such as pecans, which are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. The lime zest also adds a small amount of vitamin C and antioxidants.

To make the recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients.
Reduce the amount of confectioners' sugar used in the recipe and for rolling the cookies. You can also experiment with using alternative natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or maple syrup.
Increase the amount of pecans or add other healthy ingredients like chia seeds or flaxseeds to boost the nutrient content.
Use a mix of butter and coconut oil to reduce the saturated fat content while still maintaining the coconut flavor.

Editor's Opinion: Why I Love This Coconut-Lime Cookie Recipe

This coconut-lime Mexican wedding cookies recipe is a delightful twist on the classic treat. The combination of pecans, coconut, and lime zest adds a refreshing and tropical flavor to the traditional cookie. The texture is perfectly crumbly, and the cookies are not overly sweet, making them a perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. The freezer-friendly instructions also make this recipe convenient for preparing ahead of time. Overall, these cookies are a delightful and unique addition to any dessert spread.

Enhance Your Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the coconut-lime Mexican wedding cookies.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Sweet and caramelized grilled pineapple slices, adding a tropical twist to the dessert.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Savory and crispy bacon-wrapped asparagus, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

Tomato Basil Bruschetta: Fresh and tangy tomato basil bruschetta, offering a refreshing palate cleanser after enjoying the rich flavors of the dessert.

Delicious Alternatives to Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies

Spicy Mango Salsa: This refreshing and spicy salsa is perfect for dipping with tortilla chips or topping off grilled fish or chicken.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Indulge in this rich and creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken and al dente pasta in a decadent Alfredo sauce.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: Enjoy a healthy and flavorful salad made with roasted vegetables, protein-packed quinoa, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing.

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp: Savor the flavors of succulent shrimp cooked in a tangy lemon garlic butter sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious seafood dinner.

Berry Chia Seed Pudding: Treat yourself to a nutritious and delicious dessert made with fresh berries and chia seeds for a satisfying and guilt-free sweet treat.

Appetizer and Main Course Ideas to Serve with Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized appetizers are the perfect way to kick off any meal or gathering.

Spinach Artichoke Dip: Indulge in a creamy and cheesy spinach artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices. This warm and comforting appetizer is sure to be a hit at any party or event.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Serve it over fettuccine for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious stir fry using thinly sliced beef and a colorful array of vegetables. The savory and slightly sweet sauce will coat the ingredients perfectly, making for a delightful and healthy main course.

Why trust this Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican wedding cookies with a tropical twist, featuring the zesty flavor of lime and the rich texture of coconut. The addition of pecans adds a delightful nuttiness, while the use of unsalted butter ensures a rich and buttery flavor. The meticulous process of grinding the pecans and coconut to a sandy texture ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite. The freezing instructions also provide convenience for future baking. Trust in the expertise and creativity behind this recipe for a delightful and unique treat.

Share your thoughts on this delectable Coconut-Lime Mexican Wedding Cookies recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section and let us know how your batch turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

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

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Using salted butter will alter the overall saltiness of the cookies, so it's best to stick with unsalted butter for better control of the salt content.

Can I omit the lime zest if I don't have any limes?

While the lime zest adds a refreshing citrus flavor, you can omit it if necessary. The cookies will still have a delightful coconut flavor.

Can I use a food processor to mix the dough by hand if I don't have a food processor?

Yes, you can mix the dough by hand. Simply finely chop the pecans and mix all the dry ingredients together, then cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Add the lime zest and vanilla extract and mix until the dough comes together.

How long do these cookies stay fresh, and how should I store them?

These cookies can stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.