When the holiday season rolls around, there’s a nostalgic charm in preparing traditional sweets that bring warmth and comfort to the home. In Mexico, one such treat that’s enjoyed during Christmas is the delightful Galletas De Mazapán, known as Peanut Candy Cookies. These delightful cookies are a blend of sweet and nutty flavors, making them the perfect addition to your festive baking repertoire. Let’s explore how you can bring a touch of Mexican holiday spirit to your kitchen with this delicious recipe.
**Galletas De Mazapán Peanut Candy Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup finely ground peanuts
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving a tender and delicate texture in your cookies.
2. **Add Vanilla:** Mix in the vanilla extract to infuse a lovely aroma into the cookie dough. The hint of vanilla will complement the nuttiness of the peanuts beautifully.
3. **Incorporate Flour:** Gradually add the all-purpose flour into the mixture, stirring gently until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender and crumbly.
4. **Fold in Ground Peanuts:** Add the finely ground peanuts to the dough, gently folding them in until evenly distributed. The peanuts will provide a rich and nutty flavor to the cookies, giving them a distinctive taste.
5. **Chill the Dough:** Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will help it firm up, making it easier to shape into cookies later.
6. **Preheat Oven:** While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. **Shape Cookies:** Once the dough has chilled, roll it into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to gently press down on each cookie, creating a crisscross pattern.
8. **Bake:** Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
9. **Cool and Dust:** Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before transferring them to a plate. Dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
10. **Serve and Enjoy:** These Galletas De Mazapán Peanut Candy Cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite festive beverage. Share them with your loved ones or package them as homemade gifts for a special touch.
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Mexico with these Peanut Candy Cookies that encapsulate the essence of Christmas. You’ll love the sweet and nutty combination in every bite, making them a beloved addition to your holiday baking traditions. Embrace the spirit of the season by creating these delicious cookies that are sure to bring joy and cheer to your home. Happy baking!
