Traditional Biscochitos

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Biscochitos, also spelled bizcochitos, are traditional anise-flavored cookies from New Mexico, often made during the holidays and for special occasions. They are the official state cookie of New Mexico. Here’s a classic recipe for making biscochitos:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound lard (or vegetable shortening for a different texture)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons anise seeds
  • 2 large eggs
  • 6 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup brandy (or substitute with wine or milk)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1-2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cream Lard and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the lard and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. This may take about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Anise and Eggs: Mix in the anise seeds, then beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the brandy, until the dough comes together.
  5. Roll and Cut: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters (traditionally, biscochitos are cut into fleur-de-lis or other festive shapes).
  6. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Place the cookies on ungreased baking sheets. Sprinkle the tops with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as they can become too hard.
  8. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips:

  • Lard: Traditional biscochitos are made with lard, which gives them a unique texture and flavor. However, you can use vegetable shortening if you prefer or if lard is not available.
  • Flavor Variations: If you don’t like anise, you can experiment with other flavorings such as vanilla or almond extract.
  • Storage: Store biscochitos in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for a couple of weeks and their flavor improves after a day or two.

Enjoy your homemade biscochitos with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate!

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