FLORIDA and TEXAS-Mexican Wedding Cookies-Our Cookie Nation

The other day I realized we are almost 1/2 way through the 2011 year, and I am WAY WAY WAY behind in completing my series OUR COOKIE NATION.  Geez!  So I will be working frantically to catch up on my cookie making list.
I am skipping the cookie most requested by the beautiful state of Georgia because it is Fruitcake Cookies.  I'll make them toward the end of the year...
Here is our next cookie in the 50 States, 50 Cookies list, from the state of Florida & Texas:

Grade A+

MEXICAN WEDDING COOKIES

1 c. butter

1/2 c. white sugar

2 tsp. vanilla extract

2 tsp. water

2 c. all purpose flour

1 c. chopped almonds

1/2 c. powdered sugar

In a medium bowl cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.  Stir in the vanilla and water.  Add the flour and almonds and mix until well incorporated.  Cover and chill for 3 hours.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

Scoop the dough into balls about the size of a walnut. Roll in your hands to shape, or make into crescent shapes.  Place on ungreased baking sheets, and bake for 15 to 20 minutes.  Remove from the oven and cool the cookies on wire racks.  When the cookies are cool, roll each cookie in the powdered sugar.  Store at room temperature in an airtight container.

THESE COOKIES WERE A BIG HIT WITH EVERYONE WHO ATE THEM, AND MY FAMILY ARE IN LOVE WITH THEM TOO!  Very easy to make, these cookies are very flavorful.

Note:  I used 1 c. chopped pecans because my family prefers them to almonds.
Also, I think these would make a great cookie for a baby shower. Tinting the powdered sugar with a powdered food coloring in pink, blue, yellow, purple, green etc. would turn these into a fun presentation!

recipe source: Allrecipes.com Mexican Wedding Cookies