Portuguese Snow Drops

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar, for coating

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, and mix until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla and mix to combine.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
4. Heat the oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out circles with a biscuit cutter or cookie cutter. Place the circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Carefully drop the circles into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove the cookies from the oil and place them onto a paper-towel lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Sprinkle the cookies with the granulated sugar while still warm.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

• Portuguese Snow Drops are a traditional Christmas cookie in Portugal.
• The cookies are sometimes made with orange zest for a citrus flavor.
• These cookies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.