Biscochitos

Name: Biscochitos
Yield: makes about 2 dozen
Ingredients: 1 cup sugar, plus 3/4 cup for sprinkling; 1 1/4 cups lard or vegetable shortening; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur, such as Grand Marnier, or triple sec; Finely grated zest of 1 orange; 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons anise seeds; 2 tablespoons water; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

January 24, 2012

These cookies originated in Spain, but today they are often associated with the American Southwest, particularly New Mexico, where they are the official state cookie. Lard imparts incomparable flavor—it’s worth seeking it out, although vegetable shortening can be substituted.

Recipe notes

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