Traditional Mexican Anise Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Love With Recipes, a platform dedicated to sharing culinary delights rooted in tradition and cultural richness, presents a timeless recipe for Traditional Mexican Anise Cookies. These cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they are a celebration of Mexican heritage, infused with the aromatic allure of anise and subtle spices that evoke warmth and nostalgia. Originating from a heartfelt contribution during office cookie exchanges, this recipe has become a cherished favorite for its delicate flavor profile, buttery texture, and inviting aroma. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice eager to explore authentic Mexican confections, these cookies offer an accessible yet sophisticated baking experience. Their crispy edges and tender center make them perfect accompaniments to coffee, tea, or a glass of sherry, and they are ideal for sharing during festive occasions or casual gatherings alike.

Time

Preparation Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 42 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric hand or stand mixer (or a sturdy whisk and elbow grease)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
• Plastic wrap or reusable food wrap
• Rolling pin
• Floured work surface or pastry mat
• Cookie cutters in desired shapes
• Baking sheets (preferably ungreased or lined with parchment paper)
• Wire cooling racks
• Small bowl for cinnamon-sugar mixture
• Pastry brush (optional, for egg wash or glaze)

Tags

Mexican Cookies, Anise Flavor, Traditional Desserts, Holiday Baking, Cultural Recipes, Handcrafted Cookies, Festive Sweets, Heritage Baking

Serving Size

Approximately 2 cookies per serving, depending on size and shape.

Difficulty Level

Moderate. Requires basic baking skills such as dough handling, rolling, and shaping, but straightforward enough for home bakers of intermediate skill level.

Allergen Information

• Contains gluten (wheat flour)
• Contains dairy (butter)
• Contains eggs
• Contains traces of nuts if cross-contamination occurs (not added in ingredients)

Dietary Preference

Not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets unless substitutions are made.

Course

Dessert, Snack, Tea Time Treat

Cuisine

Mexican

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth baking process. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, the softened unsalted butter, and shortening. Using an electric mixer set to medium speed, beat these ingredients together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color—this should take approximately 3 to 5 minutes. The creaming process is essential as it aerates the dough, contributing to its tender texture and ensuring even distribution of fats. Use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically, ensuring all ingredients are incorporated thoroughly.

Once the mixture reaches the desired consistency, proceed to add the wet ingredients. Crack the large egg into the bowl, then add the 2 tablespoons of sherry wine, vanilla extract, and anise extract (if using). Beat again until the mixture is smooth, homogeneous, and fragrant. The addition of sherry adds a subtle complexity to the flavor profile, complementing the anise and cinnamon notes. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute with apple cider, milk, or a splash of orange juice.

2. Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon of the ground cinnamon. This step ensures even distribution of leavening and spices throughout the dough, preventing clumping and ensuring uniform texture. Use a fork or whisk to blend these ingredients thoroughly.

3. Mixing the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, about a third at a time. Use the mixer on low speed or fold in with a spatula until just combined after each addition. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can develop gluten in the flour and result in tougher cookies. The dough will be somewhat soft but manageable. If it appears too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches a pliable consistency.

4. Chilling the Dough

Divide the dough into two equal portions. Wrap each in plastic wrap tightly, pressing out any air pockets to prevent drying. Place the wrapped dough in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to an hour. Chilling solidifies the fats, making the dough easier to roll out and helping to prevent spreading during baking. This step is crucial for achieving the crisp edges and tender centers characteristic of these cookies.

5. Preheating the Oven and Preparing Cinnamon-Sugar

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture by combining the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir well to blend evenly. This mixture will be used to coat the cookies before baking, adding a fragrant, sweet-spicy crust.

6. Rolling and Shaping the Cookies

Remove one portion of dough from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured work surface or pastry mat. Roll out to approximately 1/8 inch thickness, ensuring an even surface. Use cookie cutters in desired shapes—stars, hearts, circles, or traditional Mexican motifs—to cut out cookies. Re-roll scraps only once to minimize dough handling and prevent toughening. Transfer cut-out cookies carefully onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading.

7. Applying the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

Using a small spoon or pastry brush, sprinkle or brush each cookie generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This step gives the cookies their signature sweet-spiced crust and enhances their visual appeal. For an extra touch, you can press the cinnamon-sugar gently into the surface with your fingers or the back of a spoon for better adherence.

8. Baking

Place the prepared baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but not browned. Keep a close watch during the final minutes to prevent overbaking, which can result in cookies becoming too hard. The cookies will continue to firm up slightly as they cool, so it’s better to remove them just before they reach perfect doneness.

9. Cooling and Serving

Once baked, transfer the cookies carefully to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling step allows excess moisture to escape, maintaining the crispness of the edges. Once cooled, serve these aromatic Mexican anise cookies alongside a cup of rich espresso, a glass of sherry, or simply enjoy them on their own. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to preserve freshness and texture.

Preparation Tips

• Chilling is key: Ensure dough is properly chilled for easier handling and better cookie shape retention.
• Uniform thickness: Roll dough consistently to ensure even baking and uniform cookie size.
• Use quality extracts: Pure vanilla and anise extracts improve flavor depth and authenticity.
• Experiment with shapes: Incorporate traditional Mexican motifs like stars or hearts for festive occasions.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify sugar levels to suit personal preference, especially for those preferring less sweetness.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Flavor Variations: For a more pronounced anise flavor, add a few drops of anise oil or increase the anise extract slightly. Conversely, for a milder flavor, reduce the amount accordingly.
• Texture Adjustments: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, into the dough for added crunch and flavor complexity.
• Decorations: Use royal icing or glaze to decorate the cookies post-baking for special occasions.
• Alternative Spices: Consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for a more complex spiced profile.
• Cookie Shapes: Make fun shapes for holidays or events—stars, crescents, or traditional Mexican motifs like sombreros or maracas.

Add-ons

• Chocolate drizzle or chips for a decadent twist.
• Orange zest or lemon zest to amplify citrus notes.
• Popcorn or crispy rice for added texture.
• Powdered sugar dusting for a snowy appearance.

Side Dishes

• Mexican hot chocolate for a warm beverage pairing.
• Rich espresso or cappuccino to complement the aromatic cookies.
• Fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.
• Traditional Mexican candies like cajeta or dulce de leche.

Improvements

• Use homemade or high-quality vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
• Experiment with different types of flour, such as almond or coconut, to cater to dietary preferences.
• Incorporate a splash of orange liqueur to deepen flavor complexity.
• Adjust baking times for softer or crisper cookies based on preference.

Save and Store

Once cooled completely, store these Mexican anise cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their crispness for up to a week. For longer storage, place the cookies in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To refresh, reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes—this restores their aroma and crispiness. Using parchment paper between layers prevents sticking and preserves the delicate surface of each cookie. Always ensure cookies are fully cooled before stacking to prevent condensation and sogginess.

FAQ

Can I substitute the sherry wine?

Yes, you can substitute with apple cider, milk, orange juice, or a non-alcoholic vanilla extract. The sherry adds a subtle depth, but the cookies will still be delicious without it.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

To make vegan anise cookies, replace butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil, use a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute, and omit or replace the egg with a commercial egg replacer. Adjust spices and flavorings to taste.

Can I make gluten-free cookies?

Yes, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Be mindful of binding agents such as xanthan gum if necessary.

What is the best way to achieve a crisp cookie?

Use a thin rolling out technique, bake until edges are lightly golden, and cool completely on wire racks. Thin cookies baked at the correct temperature will develop a crisp texture.

Conclusion

These Traditional Mexican Anise Cookies exemplify the rich culinary heritage of Mexico, blending aromatic spices with buttery richness to create a sophisticated yet approachable treat. Their history, infused with cultural significance, makes them a wonderful addition to any celebration or casual coffee break. The combination of tender crumb, fragrant cinnamon, and distinctive anise flavor offers a sensory experience that transports you to festive Mexican markets and warm family gatherings. Perfectly suited for sharing with loved ones or savoring alone, these cookies are a testament to the enduring appeal of authentic, handcrafted confections. Remember, the joy of baking lies not just in the final product, but in the process of creating a connection through food. Explore variations, share your creations, and enjoy the taste of Mexican tradition, courtesy of Love With Recipes.