Polvarones –Polvorones, the beloved Spanish shortbread cookie, are a delightful treat that melt in your mouth. These cookies are not only easy to make but are also perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy afternoons with a cup of tea. With their crumbly texture and buttery flavor, Polvorones have won the hearts of many. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the warm aroma of these cookies to your kitchen!
Polvorones: The Spanish Shortbread Cookie
These cookies are traditionally made with lard, but feel free to substitute with butter if you prefer a different flavor. The beauty of Polvorones lies in their simplicity and the delightful dusting of powdered sugar that finishes them off.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1 cup lard or unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup ground almonds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and ground almonds (if using) together, and toast them on a baking sheet in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until they’re lightly golden and fragrant. Allow it to cool.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the lard (or butter) and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and cinnamon, followed by the cooled flour mixture and salt. Stir until the dough comes together. It should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
- Take small pieces of dough and shape them into small balls or flatten them slightly to form discs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake; they should still be pale on top.
- Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- After they cool, dust the Polvorones generously with powdered sugar for that classic finish. Enjoy your delicious homemade Spanish shortbread cookies!
Serve these delightful Polvorones at your next gathering, or simply indulge in them yourself. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them an irresistible treat any time of day.