Soft Mexican Cookies

Soft Mexican Cookies have earned their rightful place in my heart (and stomach) over the years. These treats are not just cookies; they represent a cozy gathering that transcends borders. Perfect for holidays or family get-togethers, they offer a delicate balance of sweetness and spice, making them the ultimate indulgence with your morning coffee or an after-dinner delight. The fragrant notes of brandy or anise liqueur add a distinctive touch that sets them apart from regular cookies. Once you try them, you’ll want to make these soft, scrumptious delights a staple in your kitchen!

Why you’ll love this dish

These Soft Mexican Cookies aren’t just easy to whip up; they’ll win over even the pickiest eaters at your table. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert to wow your guests, or just a great snack to enjoy at home, these cookies deliver. Being quick to prepare makes them ideal for those busy weeknights or lazy weekend afternoons when you just want a sweet treat without the fuss.

“These cookies are a delightful surprise! Soft, flavorful, and so easy to make. I could eat them all day!” – A delighted baker

What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility. You can enjoy them at any time: holiday celebrations, casual family brunches, or even as a homemade gift for friends. They’re also quite budget-friendly with ingredients you likely already have, making these soft cookies the perfect solution for an impromptu dessert.

Step-by-step overview

Making Soft Mexican Cookies is a straightforward process that comes together in just a few steps. First, you’ll blend your dry and wet ingredients separately before merging them for a smooth dough. Once shaped, a quick stint in the oven creates cookies with wonderfully golden edges. The final touch? A delightful coating of sugar and cinnamon that will leave your kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas.

What you’ll need

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup brandy or anise-flavored liqueur
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground anise
1/4 teaspoon salt
Sugar and cinnamon for coating

You can swap the brandy for another liqueur or flavoring if you want to customize your cookies. Just keep in mind that anise adds a unique flavor profile that is quite authentic to the spirit of this recipe.

Step-by-step instructions

To start baking these delectable cookies, follow these steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and your choice of brandy or anise liqueur.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground anise, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.
Roll the dough into small balls, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
While still warm, roll the cookies in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

Enjoy your Soft Mexican Cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or ice cream for dessert enthusiasts looking for an elevated treat. Try serving them at a gathering with assorted toppings like whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate for an elegant touch.

How to store

To keep your Soft Mexican Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, though I doubt they will last that long! If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing unbaked dough. Just roll into balls, freeze, and bake fresh as needed. This way, you can enjoy warm cookies any time with minimal effort.

Helpful cooking tips

Ensure your butter is adequately softened for easy creaming, which will help create the lovely texture of these cookies.
Don’t overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients; this keeps the cookies tender.
If your kitchen is warm, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to maintain shape.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for a different flavor experience. You can also experiment by switching out the anise flavor for vanilla or almond extract to create a cookie that’s uniquely yours. For a festive touch, consider rolling the dough in colorful sprinkles for your next celebration.

Common questions

What is the prep time for Soft Mexican Cookies?

You’ll spend about 20 minutes preparing the dough, and then another 12-15 minutes baking.

Can I substitute the brandy in the recipe?

Yes! You can use anise-flavored liqueur, vanilla extract, or even omit it altogether if you prefer.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden while the centers look slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Soft Mexican Cookies are not just any sweets; they’re a delightful journey through flavor that is all about comfort and warmth. Baking them might just become your new favorite tradition!