Bizcochito (Anise Cookies)

Now, it's just 10 days till Christmas! Have you decided which cookies to make this year? Whether you have decided or not, you may want to consider these! If you aren't from New Mexico, you probably haven't ever heard of them. The only reason I've had them is because I had a roommate in college with family from NM, and she made these cookies for me once.

Anyway, bizcochitos are crispy cookies (basically sugar cookies) flavored with anise and cinnamon. These cookies were said to have been developed by residents of New Mexico from the first Spanish colonists. In fact, in 1989 these were named the official cookie of New Mexico. Interesting huh? The cookies are served during special times of the year such as weddings, baptisms and holidays, especially Christmas! So that's why I've included my recipe for these great little anise cookies before Christmas! :)

Bizcochito:
1/2 c. Shortening/Butter
1 c. Sugar
1 Egg
1 T. Anise Seeds
1/2 t. Cinnamon, ground
1 t. Vanilla
1 t. Baking Powder
1 t. Baking Soda
1.5 to 2 c. Flour

1. Cream together shortening, sugar and anise seeds.

2. Mix in the rest of the ingredients thoroughly.

3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4" thick and cut with cookie cutters.

4. Place about 1" apart on a baking sheet and bake for about 5 minutes, or until golden.

5. Immediately after the cookies come out of the oven sprinkle with sugar.

Store in an airtight container. Maybe send them to work with your sweetie for them and their co-workers.... ;) These are crispy and perfectly flavored little cookies!! :) Happy Baking!