Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon anise seeds
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the vegetable shortening and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, baking powder, and anise seeds.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until a dough forms.
6. Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes until it becomes smooth.
7. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and use a cookie cutter to cut out desired shapes.
8. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 dozen cookies
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vegetable shortening can be substituted with butter or margarine.
- Anise seeds can be substituted with fennel seeds or ground cinnamon.
Variations:
- Add lemon zest or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- Substitute the anise seeds with other spices such as cardamom or nutmeg.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough for added texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cream the shortening and sugar well to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Do not overwork the dough or the cookies will become tough.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out for easier handling.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
- To refresh the cookies, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes until warm.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the cookies on a platter and dust with powdered sugar.
- Serve the cookies with a cup of tea or coffee.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar or sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Top the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream or frosting.
Pairings:
- Serve the cookies with a glass of milk or hot cocoa.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the cookies with fresh fruit or a fruit salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk.
- If the cookies are too hard, reduce the baking time or temperature.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling the ingredients.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
- Bizcochitos are a traditional cookie from New Mexico that date back to the Spanish colonial era.
Flavor profiles:
- The anise seeds give these cookies a sweet and slightly licorice-like flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve these cookies as a sweet treat for dessert or as a snack.
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Region: New Mexican