Easy Portuguese Cookies

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup butter, melted
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Stir in the eggs, one at a time.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. Add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the almonds.
6. Drop heaping tablespoons of the dough onto a greased cookie sheet, about 2 inches (5 cm) apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Let cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Interesting Facts

• These cookies are sometimes called “Biscoitos de Natal” (Christmas Cookies) because they’re traditionally served during the Christmas season.
• The Portuguese word for cookie is “biscoito”.
• The dough for the cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.