Mexican Cookies
Enjoy authentic Mexican Cookies with unique flavors and traditional recipes. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon anise seeds
- 2 tablespoons dulce de leche
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche for filling
- 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for spicy filling
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder optional for spicy filling
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and anise seeds.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined.
- Fold in the dulce de leche and cocoa powder until evenly distributed.
Shape and Fill the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into equal portions and flatten each into a disk.
- Create an indentation in the center of each disk and add a teaspoon of dulce de leche and a few chocolate chips.
- Fold the dough over the filling and shape into your desired form.
Bake the Cookies:
- Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, enjoy your delicious Mexican Cookies with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
From my kitchen tests, I've discovered that using high-quality butter significantly enhances the flavor and texture of Mexican Cookies. For best results, ensure that the butter is softened but not melted to achieve the perfect crumbly texture. A chef's secret to preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking is to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping. This not only helps in maintaining their shape but also intensifies the flavors.
Key tip: If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the filling. Seasonal adaptation is also a great way to customize these cookies; adding pumpkin zest during the fall can infuse a unique flavor profile that complements the traditional spices.
Storage solution: For extended freshness, consider wrapping individual cookies in parchment paper before placing them in an airtight container. This method helps retain their moisture and prevents them from becoming too dry over time.
Presentation idea: Dusting the cooled cookies with a light layer of cinnamon sugar not only adds an extra touch of sweetness but also enhances their visual appeal, making them perfect for festive gatherings and holiday treats.
Common mistake to avoid: Overbaking is a frequent issue that can lead to overly dry cookies. Keep a close eye on the baking time and remove the cookies from the oven as soon as the edges turn lightly golden.
Advanced technique: For an extra layer of flavor, try incorporating espresso powder into the dough. This subtle addition intensifies the chocolate notes and adds depth to the overall taste of the cookies.
Dietary adaptation: To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, using plant-based butter can make the recipe suitable for those following a vegan diet.
Meal prep advice: These cookies store well, making them an excellent option for meal prepping. Bake a large batch and enjoy them throughout the week as a delightful snack or share them with friends and family during gatherings.