Mexican Wedding Cookies Lard

Mexican Wedding Cookies, also known as “biscochitos” in Mexico, are delightful treats that never fail to evoke feelings of warmth and celebration. These buttery cookies, often served at weddings and special occasions, are perfect for indulging in a sweet moment of bliss. While many recipes call for butter, substituting lard adds a unique flavor and texture to these beloved treats. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make traditional Mexican Wedding Cookies using lard for that extra touch of richness and authenticity.

**Ingredients:**

– 1 cup lard, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for coating
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans or almonds

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the lard and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy. This might take a few minutes, but it’s worth the effort to ensure a light texture in your cookies.

3. Add the vanilla extract to the lard and sugar mixture, blending well to incorporate the flavor throughout the dough.

4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the lard mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

5. Gently fold in the chopped pecans or almonds, distributing them evenly throughout the dough to create a nutty crunch in every bite.

6. Take about a tablespoon of dough at a time and roll it into small balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet about an inch apart. These cookies will not spread much during baking, so you can place them relatively close together.

7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden brown. Be cautious not to overbake as lard-based cookies can become dry if left in the oven for too long.

8. While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in powdered sugar to coat them generously. This step adds a delightful sweetness and creates a beautiful snowy effect on the cookies.

9. Allow the Mexican Wedding Cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. These cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, savoring each buttery bite and nutty crunch.

10. Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, although they are so delicious they might not last that long!

With their delicate texture and irresistible flavor, these Mexican Wedding Cookies made with lard are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether baked for a special occasion or just to brighten an ordinary day, these sweet treats will bring a touch of joy to every bite. Enjoy the process of making these lovely cookies and share them with your loved ones for a truly heartwarming experience.