New Mexico Biscochitos

Shared by Theresa Martinez and family

Ingredients

2 cups lard

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 eggs

1 tsp ground anise seed

6 cups flour

3 tsp baking powder

1 tsp salt

2 tsp vanilla extract

For dipping mixture:

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup cinnamon

Instructions

Cream together 2 cups lard with 1 1/2 cup sugar and 3 eggs. Add each a bit at a time and beat for at least 15 minutes. 

Add 1 teaspoon ground aniseed . 

In a bowl put 6 cups flour, 3 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and mix well.

Add to lard mixture, keep beating, and add 2 teaspoons vanilla.

Mix on low until flour is completely mixed and texture feels light and fluffy.

Roll out dough and cut shapes with desired cookie cutter.

Mix 1cup sugar and 1/4 cup cinnamon in separate bowl. 

Dip each cookie in sugar-cinnamon mixture and bake at 350 degrees until brown, about 15 minutes.

Try more traditional recipes from the Martinez family, and read about five generations of their family working together to celebrate Christmas:

Irresistible Empanaditas

Traditional Tamales

Tamales and Tradition

Story and Photography by Gabriella Marks / Styling by Robert Nachman / Food by Theresa Martinez and family