New Mexican Biscochitos

Name: New Mexican Biscochitos: Discover the Authentic Recipe!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup lard; 1/4 cup brandy or whiskey; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon anise seeds; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg

Posted on December 27, 2025

Sweet Treats

Introduction to New Mexican Biscochitos

As a passionate home cook, I find joy in sharing recipes that bring warmth and comfort to our busy lives. New Mexican Biscochitos are one of those delightful treats that can turn an ordinary day into something special. These traditional anise-flavored cookies are not just delicious; they’re a quick solution for a busy day or a sweet way to impress your loved ones during the holidays. With their crumbly texture and unique flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home, just as they have in mine. Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This New Mexican Biscochitos

New Mexican Biscochitos are a delightful blend of ease and flavor. They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy moms and professionals like us. The unique anise flavor adds a special touch that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, they’re versatile enough for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy afternoons with a cup of tea. Trust me, these cookies will steal the show!

Ingredients for New Mexican Biscochitos

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful New Mexican Biscochitos. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, providing structure and a lovely crumbly texture.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds richness and flavor, making your cookies melt in your mouth.

Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the spices and enhances the overall flavor.
Lard: Traditional in many recipes, lard gives a unique texture. If you prefer, you can substitute it with more butter.

Brandy or whiskey: This adds depth and a hint of warmth. Feel free to use your favorite spirit or even a non-alcoholic option like vanilla extract.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise, giving them a light and airy feel.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the anise flavor beautifully, adding a cozy aroma.

Anise seeds: The star of the show! These seeds provide that distinctive flavor that makes Biscochitos so special.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
Egg: This binds the ingredients together and adds moisture, ensuring your cookies are tender.

For those who like a sweeter cookie, consider sprinkling a little sugar on top before baking. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make New Mexican Biscochitos

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful New Mexican Biscochitos! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that will fill your home with warmth and joy.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Lard

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and lard with sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential for creating a tender texture. The air you incorporate while creaming will help your cookies rise beautifully. It’s like giving your cookies a little boost of happiness!

Step 3: Add the Egg and Brandy

Next, add the egg and your choice of brandy or whiskey to the creamed mixture. The egg binds everything together, while the brandy adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re not using alcohol, a splash of vanilla extract works wonders too. This step is where the magic begins!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, anise seeds, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients separately is important. It ensures that the baking powder and spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This way, every bite of your New Mexican Biscochitos will be bursting with flavor!

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little extra flour. You want it to be soft but manageable. Think of it as a cozy blanket for your cookies!

Step 6: Roll and Cut the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. Whether you choose stars, hearts, or traditional shapes, have fun with it! Just remember to keep the thickness consistent for even baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place the cut cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is different. You’ll know they’re done when your kitchen starts to smell like a warm hug!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time is essential for them to set properly. Serve them with a cup of coffee or tea, and watch your loved ones smile with every bite!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter and lard are at room temperature for easy creaming.
Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s key for even baking.

Use a light hand when rolling out the dough to keep it tender.
Experiment with cookie shapes for a fun presentation.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Equipment Needed

Baking sheet: A standard one works great, but a silicone mat can prevent sticking.
Parchment paper: This is optional, but it makes cleanup a breeze.

Mixing bowls: Use any size, but a large one is ideal for creaming.
Rolling pin: A simple one will do, or even a wine bottle in a pinch!
Cookie cutters: Get creative with shapes, or use a knife for squares.

Variations of New Mexican Biscochitos

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Vegan: Replace the butter and lard with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor that complements the anise beautifully.

Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the dough for a delightful twist on the traditional recipe.
Nutty Addition: Mix in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and richness.

Serving Suggestions for New Mexican Biscochitos

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Arrange on a decorative platter for holiday gatherings to impress your guests.

FAQs about New Mexican Biscochitos

As you embark on your baking adventure with New Mexican Biscochitos, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help guide you through the process:

Can I use a different flavor instead of anise?

Absolutely! While anise is traditional, you can experiment with flavors like vanilla or almond extract. Just remember, it will change the cookie’s character, but it can be delicious!

How do I store New Mexican Biscochitos?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before rolling it out.

What can I serve with New Mexican Biscochitos?

These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters during celebrations!

Are New Mexican Biscochitos suitable for special diets?

With a few adjustments, yes! You can make gluten-free or vegan versions, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies.

Final Thoughts

Baking New Mexican Biscochitos is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that fills your home with warmth and love. Each bite transports you to a cozy kitchen, where the aroma of anise and cinnamon dances in the air. These cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends, creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, these treats bring joy to every moment. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the magic of New Mexican Biscochitos brighten your day!