Traditional Biscochitos

Biscochitos (or Bizcochitos) are the official state cookie of New Mexico and a beloved traditional treat with deep roots in Spanish and Mexican culture. These anise-flavored, cinnamon-sugar-dusted shortbread cookies are often served during holidays, weddings, and special occasions. Here’s an authentic recipe:

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Traditional Biscochitos Recipe

Prep Time: 20 mins (+ chilling) | Cook Time: 10-12 mins | Makes: ~3 dozen

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup lard (traditional) or unsalted butter (for a lighter flavor)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp anise seeds (or 1 tsp anise extract for stronger flavor)
• 2 tbsp brandy, rum, or white wine (optional, for authenticity)

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

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Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Cream Fat & Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, beat lard (or butter) and sugar until light and fluffy (~3 mins).
   • Add egg, anise seeds (or extract), and brandy/rum (if using); mix well.
3. Combine & Chill Dough:
   • Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
   • Shape dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill 1 hour (or overnight).
4. Roll & Cut:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface.
   • Cut into fluted circles (or traditional fleur-de-lis shapes).
5. Bake:
   • Place cookies on parchment-lined sheets and bake 10-12 mins, until edges are lightly golden.
6. Coat in Cinnamon-Sugar:
   • While warm, dip tops of cookies in a mix of sugar + cinnamon.
7. Serve:
   • Cool completely and enjoy with coffee or hot chocolate!

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Tips for Authenticity:

• Lard is traditional and gives the best texture (crisp yet tender).
• Anise seeds provide a subtle licorice flavor—don’t skip!
• Brandy/rum adds depth; omit if needed, but it’s classic.
• Storage: Keeps in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

These buttery, spiced cookies are a taste of New Mexican heritage. Perfect for Christmas, Cinco de Mayo, or any fiesta! 🎉 Let me know if you’d like variations (like orange zest or nutmeg). 😊