These Vegan Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as Snowball Cookies or Russian Tea Cakes, are buttery, nutty treats that melt in your mouth. Perfect for holidays and special occasions, they are easy to prepare and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

• 1 cup vegan butter, softened (e.g., Earth Balance)
• ½ cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup finely chopped pecans (or walnuts)
• Optional: ½ teaspoon almond extract for added flavor

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened vegan butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
   • Add the vanilla extract (and almond extract if using) and mix until combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
4. Add the Nuts:
   • Fold in the finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Shape the Cookies:
   • Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 7-10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale; do not overbake.
7. Coat in Powdered Sugar:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. While still warm, roll each cookie in powdered sugar to coat.
   • Once completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again for a thicker coating.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve your Vegan Mexican Wedding Cookies at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.

Tips for Success

• Nut Substitutions: If you have nut allergies, you can omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds.
• Gluten-Free Option: You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to customize the flavor.

These Vegan Mexican Wedding Cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy this delightful treat that captures the essence of tradition while being completely plant-based!