Polvorones – A Delightful Spanish Shortbread Cookie Recipe
Polvorones, also known as Spanish shortbread cookies, are a traditional treat beloved for their crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate flavor. These cookies are often enjoyed during festive occasions such as Christmas and special family gatherings. Made with a mixture of almond flour and all-purpose flour, sweetened with powdered sugar, and infused with a hint of anise liqueur, these treats are a true indulgence. Let’s walk through how you can create these delightful Polvorones at home!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Almond flour | 80g |
| All-purpose flour | 250g |
| Lard (or unsalted butter) | 135g |
| Powdered sugar | 80g |
| Anise liqueur | 10g |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 pinch |
| Fine salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Powdered sugar (for dusting) | q.b. |
Nutritional Information
While the precise nutritional content may vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used, here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving (assuming 40 cookies):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 Cookie) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~95 kcal |
| Protein | ~1g |
| Carbohydrates | ~11g |
| Fat | ~5g |
| Saturated Fat | ~1g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
| Sugar | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~40mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Flours
To begin making your Polvorones, combine the almond flour and all-purpose flour in a large bowl. Mix them thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of both flours. Spread the flour mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring an even layer. Toast the flour in a preheated fan-assisted oven at 130°C (266°F) for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent burning.
If your oven’s fan is particularly strong, you may opt to use a static oven at the same temperature. This process will help to deepen the flavors of the flours and create a rich base for your cookies.
Step 2: Cool the Flours
Once toasted, remove the flour mixture from the oven and set it aside to cool for at least 30 minutes. This cooling step is essential because it helps the flours settle, preventing them from affecting the texture of your cookie dough.
Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Transfer the cooled toasted flours into the bowl of a stand mixer. If you’re working by hand, simply place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar, salt, and a pinch of cinnamon to the bowl.
Pour in the anise liqueur for that characteristic flavor that elevates these shortbread cookies to another level. Use the stand mixer to combine the ingredients on a low speed until they form a smooth dough. If working by hand, use your fingers to gently mix everything together until the dough begins to take shape.
Step 4: Rest the Dough
Once the dough is formed, transfer it to a clean work surface and knead it briefly with your hands to ensure everything is well-incorporated. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This resting period will help the dough firm up and make it easier to roll out.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
After the dough has rested, remove it from the fridge and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to a thickness of 1 cm (0.4 inches). Using a circular cookie cutter (about 4 cm in diameter), cut out individual cookies from the dough.
Arrange the cut-out cookies gently on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not overcrowded. The dough will still be a bit soft at this stage, so handle the cookies delicately.
Step 6: Bake the Polvorones
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 130°C (266°F) for 15-18 minutes, or until they are just beginning to turn golden around the edges. The cookies will appear slightly soft when first baked, but don’t worry! As they cool, they will firm up and develop their signature crumbly texture.
Step 7: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once baked, remove the Polvorones from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This allows the cookies to set before you transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once completely cooled, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. The sugar will adhere to the slightly tacky surface of the cookies, giving them that iconic look.
Tips for Perfect Polvorones
- Flavor Variation: If you prefer a different flavor, you can experiment with different liqueurs like rum or vanilla extract. Just ensure that the amount remains balanced so as not to overpower the other ingredients.
- Texture Adjustment: For a softer, more melt-in-your-mouth texture, reduce the amount of lard slightly, or substitute part of the lard with unsalted butter. This will create a richer, smoother dough.
- Storage: Store the Polvorones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These cookies also freeze well, so feel free to double the recipe and save some for later enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
Polvorones are traditionally served during festive seasons such as Christmas and New Year’s, but they’re perfect for any occasion. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee to enjoy their crumbly, delicate texture. These cookies also make for a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift during the holidays.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Polvorones are the perfect balance of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The addition of almond flour gives them a slightly nutty, refined flavor, while the touch of anise liqueur introduces a warm, aromatic note that makes them feel extra special. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, these Polvorones will not disappoint.
