A Halloween Treat :)

Next Wednesday is Halloween, and I will be too busy to post. I had thought to do something with the holiday in mind, but I can't think of much. Instead, with the thought of the sweets to be exchanged, I thought I'd post this recipe for Biscochitos, (bees-ko-CHEE-tohs) a popular and traditional cookie, also our state cookie. They are fantastic, and easy to make. Traditionally you use lard in the recipe, but shortening is easier to find on some places and these are very good. If you want to try a more traditional recipe, try this one: Biscochitos

INGREDIENTS

• 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cups shortening
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 2 teaspoons anise seed
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)
2. Sift flour with baking powder and salt. Cream shortening with sugar and anise seeds until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix in flour and brandy until well blended.
3. Turn dough out on a floured board and pat or roll to 1/4 or 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into shapes (the fleur-de-lys is traditional). Dust with a mixture of 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon.
4. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden brown.