Traditional New Mexican Biscochitos Recipe

Indulge in the delicious taste of traditional New Mexican Biscochitos. These buttery and flaky cookies are a staple during the Christmas season in New Mexico. Made with a unique blend of spices and anise liqueur, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting to loved ones. Enjoy the taste of the Southwest with this authentic Biscochitos recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup brandy or anise liqueur
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground anise seeds
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, followed by the brandy or anise liqueur.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing well to form a dough.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a disk.
6. Wrap the dough disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Remove one dough disk from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
9. Use cookie cutters of your choice to cut out different shapes from the dough.
10. Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
11. Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the second dough disk.
12. Combine the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground anise seeds in a small bowl.
13. Sprinkle the cookie shapes with the cinnamon mixture, followed by a sprinkle of granulated sugar.
14. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
15. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
16. Repeat the baking process with the remaining dough and cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Interesting Facts