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Italian Wedding Cookies, also known as Italian butter cookies or snowball cookies, are a classic treat with a tender, crumbly texture and a sweet, buttery flavor. Coated in powdered sugar, these delicate cookies are perfect for weddings, holidays, or any special occasion.
Simple to make and irresistible, they’re a delightful addition to any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Elegant: Perfect for holidays, weddings, or tea parties.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Buttery and tender with a delicate crumb.
- Quick and Easy: Made with just a few basic ingredients.
- Customizable: Add nuts, extracts, or spices to suit your taste.
- Festive Appearance: The powdered sugar coating makes them look like little snowballs.
What to Serve with Italian Wedding Cookies
- Coffee or Espresso: A classic pairing for these rich, buttery cookies.
- Hot Tea: Perfect for an afternoon tea spread.
- Dessert Platter: Combine with biscotti, cannoli, or other Italian treats.
- Fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced fruit for contrast.
- Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream.

Italian Wedding Cookies
Buttery, crumbly Italian wedding cookies coated in powdered sugar, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus more for coating)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts work best)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until combined. Stir in the chopped nuts.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into small balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
- Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
- Let the cookies cool completely and roll them in powdered sugar again for a thicker coating.
- Arrange on a serving platter or store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing Option: Freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and re-roll in powdered sugar if needed.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts for a plain butter cookie version.
- Flavor Variations: Add almond or lemon extract for a different twist.
- Powdered Sugar Tip: Roll the cookies in sugar while warm for better adhesion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon.
What type of nuts work best?
Almonds, pecans, or walnuts are traditional choices, but pistachios also work well.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.
Wrapping it up
Italian Wedding Cookies are a timeless treat that’s simple to make yet irresistibly delicious. With their buttery texture, nutty flavor, and snowy powdered sugar coating, they’re the perfect addition to any celebration.
Bake a batch today and enjoy these delightful cookies with family and friends!