Enjoy making these Biscochitos, a delightful blend of fragrant anise and smooth brandy, topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar crust. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a cozy evening at home or serving them at a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 teaspoons crushed anise seed
- 1 1/4 cups lard
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon brandy
For the Topping:
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and crushed anise seed in a medium bowl.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream the lard and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and brandy, beating to combine.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture until the dry ingredients are combined.
- Form the dough into a ball using your hands, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Prepare the Topping:
- Combine the sugar and cinnamon for the topping in a small bowl. Set aside.
Shape and Bake the Cookies:
- Divide the chilled dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut out cookies using your preferred cookie cutters.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake until just barely golden and set, typically around 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of cinnamon sugar on top of each cookie immediately after baking.
Finish and Cool:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. Then, carefully dip the bottoms of the cookies into the remaining cinnamon sugar.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Anise Brandy Sugar Cookies offer a unique taste experience, blending the distinctive flavors of anise and brandy with a sweet, crispy topping. They are sure to be a hit at any gathering or a wonderful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.