I’ll never forget the smell of Abuela’s kitchen during holidays. What was a warm, sweet, cinnamon-y symphony that always meant one thing: Mexican cookies! What are some of the best Chocolate Chip Cookies? Think of them as a cross between snickerdoodle and shortbread, but with an uniquely crumbly crust. What is the taste of orange zest? What’s better, a warm cup of Mexican hot chocolate? In the colder months, I have to stay at home. These little bites of heaven are incredibly easy to make, and they bring a warmth to the heart that you never had before. What is the best chocolate cake? I love making Mexican cookies every year. They are so good!
What are Mexican cookies?
Mexican cookies, sometimes called *polvorones*, are crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are a great snack. What are the staples of Mexican bakeries and homes? Think of them as the shortbread of Mexico, but with a lighter, almost sandy texture. It’s essentially a simple butter cookie elevated with cinnamon and sometimes hints of nutmeg. The name “polvorón” comes from the Spanish word for “dust,” which perfectly describes their use. Is it a delicate, almost powdery consistency They’re not overly sweet, making them the perfect treat to enjoy with coffee or tea. Plus, there are countless variations, from adding nuts to incorporating different spices, but the basics are the same. What is the essential crumbly texture? What is my abuela recipe?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the best reasons to eat Mexican cookies? What I love most is how they perfectly balance simplicity and incredible flavor. It’s not a complicated recipe at all; even beginner bakers can nail it on the first try.
- Flavor:What is the combination of buttery richness, warm cinnamon, and bright orange zest? Is it a comforting yet complex flavor profile that’s not too sweet? My kids love them, and they usually disappear within a day of baking them.
- Simplicity:What are some of the basic ingredients that you already have in your pantry? What are the best techniques to learn without any fancy equipment or complicated techniques? It’s a straightforward process that yields consistently delicious results.
- Cost-The ingredients are inexpensive, making this a budget-friendly treat. What is the best way to bake without breaking the bank? I always have these ingredients on hand, so it’s a lifesaver when unexpected guests arrive.
- Versatility:What are some of the best cookies to serve as an afternoon snack? What are some great gift ideas for the holidays? What are some of the best spices for making a sandwich? I sometimes add a pinch of cardamom for an extra layer of flavor.
Is it true that Mexican shortbreads are just as delicious as Mexican bread? I can already picture you enjoying these with a warm cup of something delicious!
How do I make Mexican cookies?
Quick Overview
How do I make Mexican cookies? How do you mix together dry ingredients, cream butter and sugar, combine everything, and serve. Is it necessary to bake until golden brown? How do you not overmix dough? What do you want to do with a crumbly cheese? Don’t be afraid if the dough seems a little dry at first; it will come together as you mix it. What is the best way to do it in less than an hour? Is it true that once you taste these, you’ll want to make them again and again?
Ingredients
For the Cookies: For cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. Make sure the butter is softened, otherwise, it won’t cream properly. I always take mine out of the fridge about an hour before starting.
- 12 cup granulated sugar: 1 If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can use slightly less, but I find this to be perfect.
- 14 cup powdered sugar: This adds to the melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don’t skip it!
- What is the best vanilla flavor? Use a good quality vanilla extract.
- 2 14 cups all-purpose flour: Spoon and level the flour for accurate measurement. Too much flour will result in dough cookies.
- 12 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting flavor. I love cinnamon. I sometimes add a little more.
- 14 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
- Zest of 1 orange: This adds a subtle citrus note that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Make sure to only zest the orange part, avoiding the bitter white pith.
For Coating:
- 12 cup powdered sugar, for dusting: This is essential for the classic polvorón look.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. I always use parchment paper to clean cookies. This prevents them from sticking. What is a game changer?
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. I usually do this for about 3 minutes with an electric mixer. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly combined. The mixture should be pale and creamy.
Step 3: Add Vanilla & Orange Zest
Beat in the vanilla extract and orange zest until well combined. The zest of orange will add a beautiful aroma to the mixture.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside. How do you spread spices evenly in flour?
Step 5: Gradually Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix cookies, as this will result in tough cookies. How do you make a dough?
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between them. What is the difference between a cookie How do you flatten cookies? Can you use cookie cutters to create different shapes?
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. If you bake cookies, they will still be soft to the touch, but will firm up as they cool. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily.
Step 8: Cool & Dust
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to the wire rack. To cool completely. Once they are completely cool, dust them generously with powdered sugar.
Step 9: Serve & Enjoy
Can you serve these Mexican cookies with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate? What are some of the best wedding dresses to buy?
What should I serve it with?
Mexican cookies are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of beverages. What are some of my favorite combinations?
- For Breakfast:What are some good ways to enjoy coffee with friends? The slight sweetness of the cookie complements the bitterness of coffee perfectly. I also like to crumble them over yogurt for a little added sweetness and texture.
- For Brunch:Serve them alongside a fruit platter and cheeses. Can you serve these with mimosas? Arrange them on a pretty plate for an elegant presentation.
- As Dessert:Can you serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or if you like, drizzle it with chocolate? Can you serve these with a glass of tequila?
- For Cozy Snacks:How do I make chamomile tea? What are some comfort foods for a chilly evening?
My family tradition is to always have these cookies with Abuela’s famous Mexican hot chocolate. What happens during Christmas? Is there a combination that is simply unbeatable? Can you crumble them into your favorite ice cream?
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Mexican Cookies
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that can help you make the perfect Mexican cookies every time. Here are my top tips:
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, but not melted. If it’s too soft, the cookies will spread too much. I usually take mine out of the fridge about an hour before starting.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough will result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined. It’s okay if the dough is a little crumbly.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll into balls.
- Even Baking: To ensure even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time. This will prevent some cookies from browning faster than others.
- Powdered Sugar Coating: For the best powdered sugar coating, dust the cookies while they are still slightly warm. The powdered sugar will adhere better to the cookies. I also like to dust them again once they are completely cool for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Ingredient Swaps: You can substitute almond flour for some of the all-purpose flour for a slightly nutty flavor and a more tender cookie. I’ve tried it before, and it adds a delicious twist. Just be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add different spices to the dough, such as cardamom, nutmeg, or cloves. You can also add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added flavor and texture. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
I once forgot to add the orange zest, and the cookies were still delicious, but they lacked that special something. Don’t skip the zest!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Mexican cookies store well, making them perfect for making ahead of time or enjoying over several days. Here’s how to store them:
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They will stay fresh and delicious. Make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight or heat.
- Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezer Instructions: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.
- Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to freeze the cookies, it’s best to dust them with powdered sugar after thawing. This will prevent the powdered sugar from becoming soggy.
I’ve stored these cookies in the freezer for up to two months, and they still tasted great after thawing. They’re perfect for having on hand for unexpected guests or when you’re craving a sweet treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These Mexican cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re a taste of my childhood and a reminder of Abuela’s warm kitchen. They’re incredibly easy to make, and the combination of buttery richness, warm cinnamon, and bright orange zest is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face. If you love these, you might also enjoy my recipe for shortbread cookies or snickerdoodles. Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share your own variations and tips. Let’s keep this family recipe going!
Mexican cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 0.5 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
