Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies

Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the aromatic flavor of anise seeds with the rich, warming notes of rum. These cookies are perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated twist on traditional baked goods. The recipe is simple yet yields cookies that are both flavorful and visually appealing, making them ideal for special occasions or as a gourmet homemade gift.

History

The Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies recipe has its roots in traditional European baking, where anise has long been a popular flavor in desserts and bread. The addition of rum, referred to as "borrachio" (drunken) in Spanish, gives these cookies a unique twist, blending cultural influences to create a modern classic. This recipe is a testament to the evolution of baking, where traditional ingredients meet contemporary tastes.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of anise seed
3 tbsp of rum
1.25 cups of butter
0.75 cups of white sugar
1.5 tsp of vanilla extract
2.5 cups of all purpose flour
1 egg
0.5 tsp of salt
1 tsp of baking powder
1.5 tsp of ground cloves

How to prepare

Place the anise seeds in a small bowl with the rum.
Allow the mixture to marinate overnight.
In a medium bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Stir in the anise seeds and rum.
Mix in the egg.
Combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and cloves; stir into the butter mixture until well blended.
Cover and refrigerate the dough until chilled, about 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to a thickness of 0.13 inches.
Cut the dough into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
Place the cookies on a greased cookie sheet.
Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the edges turn golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheets before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Variations

Consider adding a chocolate drizzle or dipping half the cookie in melted chocolate for a sweet contrast. Lemon or orange zest can be added to the dough for a citrusy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, marinate the anise seeds in rum overnight to fully infuse the flavor. When creaming the butter and sugar, make sure the butter is at room temperature for a smooth texture. Chilling the dough is crucial for easy handling and to prevent spreading during baking. Roll the dough evenly for uniform baking, and keep an eye on the cookies as they bake to achieve the perfect golden edge.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a cup of strong coffee or tea to complement their rich flavors. They also pair beautifully with a glass of dessert wine or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the creaming of butter and sugar, which introduces air into the mixture for a light texture. Properly marinating the anise seeds and chilling the dough are also crucial steps for flavor development and ease of handling.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a non-alcoholic version, replace the rum with an equal amount of non-alcoholic vanilla or anise extract mixed with water. If anise seeds are not available, fennel seeds can be a suitable substitute, offering a similar licorice flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Dust the cookies with powdered sugar or garnish with anise seeds before serving for an elegant finish. Presenting them on a vintage platter or in a decorative tin can enhance their appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these cookies with a dessert wine like Moscato or a fortified wine such as Port to complement their rich flavors. A spiced chai tea or a latte can also be a delightful non-alcoholic pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. There is no need to reheat, but if desired, a few seconds in the microwave can warm them slightly.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each cookie contains approximately 150 calories, making them a moderate indulgence for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the all-purpose flour and sugar, providing energy and sweetness to the cookies.

Fats

These cookies contain about 8 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from butter. This contributes to the cookies' rich flavor and tender crumb.

Proteins

Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies offer around 2 grams of protein per serving, derived mainly from the egg and to a lesser extent from the flour.

Vitamins and minerals

While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, these cookies do provide small amounts of calcium and iron from the flour and egg, as well as trace amounts of other nutrients.

Alergens

Key allergens in this recipe include gluten (from wheat flour), eggs, and dairy (butter). Those with sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies are a delightful treat with moderate calories and fats, and a small amount of protein. While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, they are an indulgent way to enjoy the aromatic flavors of anise and rum.

Summary

Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies are a sophisticated and flavorful treat that combines the aromatic taste of anise with the warmth of rum. With a rich history and simple preparation, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the kind where the sun kisses your skin and a gentle breeze carries the scent of blooming flowers through the air. I was rummaging through an old trunk in the attic, searching for some forgotten treasures, when I stumbled upon a dusty, tattered cookbook. As I flipped through the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out, revealing a handwritten recipe for Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies.

I held the paper in my hands, feeling a rush of nostalgia wash over me. The handwriting was familiar, yet I couldn't quite place it. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories began to flood back to me. I remembered my own grandmother, a lovely woman with a passion for cooking and a talent for creating mouthwatering dishes. She had passed down many recipes to me over the years, each one cherished and treasured.

I could almost hear her voice as I read the recipe for the Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies. She had always told me that the key to a delicious cookie was to use the freshest ingredients and to infuse each bite with love. I could picture her standing in her cozy kitchen, a cloud of flour dusting her apron as she mixed and kneaded the dough with expert hands.

I decided then and there that I would make these cookies, not only to honor my grandmother's memory, but also to carry on her legacy of creating delicious treats for my own family. I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work, following the instructions carefully and adding a pinch of love with each step.

The scent of anise filled the air as the cookies baked in the oven, creating a warm, comforting aroma that reminded me of my grandmother's kitchen. When they were finally done, I took a bite and was transported back in time. The flavors were rich and complex, with a hint of sweetness and a subtle warmth from the anise seeds.

I shared the cookies with my family, watching as their faces lit up with delight. They marveled at the unique flavor and asked for seconds, savoring each bite as if it were a precious treasure. I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction, knowing that I had successfully recreated a beloved recipe from my past.

As I sat at the kitchen table, surrounded by loved ones and enjoying the fruits of my labor, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the gift of cooking. It was a skill that had been passed down through generations, connecting me to my ancestors and preserving their memories in each dish I created.

And so, the recipe for Anise Seed Borrachio Cookies became a staple in my kitchen, a reminder of the love and legacy that had been passed down to me. Every time I bake a batch of these delicious treats, I am transported back to that warm summer day in the attic, where I discovered a piece of my past and embarked on a culinary journey that would forever shape my life.