Ingredients

3 cups unbleached flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon anise seed , crushed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup roasted and salted pistachios , ground small
1 cup butter , softened
1/3 cup raw sugar ( demerara , turbinado )
1/3 cup dark brown sugar , packed ( I used piloncillo )
1 large egg
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon orange extract
2 teaspoons orange zest
colored sugar , for decoration
Biscochitos De Alfòncigo are a traditional New Mexican treat that have been enjoyed for generations. These cookies are a staple of the holiday season in New Mexico, with many families passing down their own recipes and variations. The unique combination of flavors in these cookies, including anise seed, cinnamon, and roasted pistachios, make them stand out from more traditional cookies. Biscochitos De Alfòncigo are typically served with hot chocolate or coffee, making them a cozy and comforting treat.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2.In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, anise seed, cinnamon, salt, and ground pistachios.
3.In a large bowl, beat butter, raw sugar, and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4.Add egg, almond extract, orange extract, and orange zest, and mix until well combined.
5.Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6.Form dough into small balls and flatten slightly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7.Sprinkle colored sugar on top of each cookie.
8.Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
9.Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

PROS

Biscochitos De Alfòncigo are a traditional New Mexican treat made with a unique combination of flavors, including anise seed, cinnamon, and roasted pistachios.

These cookies are perfect for the holidays, with their festive appearance and delicious taste.

They are also relatively easy to make, with simple ingredients and a quick baking time.

CONS

These cookies are not particularly healthy, as they are high in sugar and fat.

They are also not suitable for those with nut allergies due to the ground pistachios in the recipe.

Finally, the anise seed may be overpowering for some palates, making these cookies an acquired taste for some.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Biscochitos De Alfòncigo are not particularly healthy, they do contain some nutrients.
Pistachios are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
Anise seed is known to have digestive benefits and may also aid in reducing inflammation.
Finally, cinnamon has been linked to improved blood sugar control.

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