Imagine a cookie so delicate it practically dissolves on your tongue, transporting you to the charming streets of Spain with every heavenly bite. Polvorones are not just cookies; they're a cultural experience wrapped in buttery, almond-infused perfection. These traditional Spanish treats are the ultimate comfort dessert that will make you feel like you've discovered a sweet secret passed down through generations of passionate bakers.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup ground almonds
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Cream together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft, crumbly dough forms. The dough should hold together when pressed.
- Transfer the dough to a work surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together.
- Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass to create slightly oval-shaped cookies.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the bottoms are pale golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack and dust generously with additional powdered sugar while still warm.
- Allow cookies to cool completely. The cookies will become more delicate and melt-in-your-mouth as they cool.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Tips
- • Use room temperature butter for the smoothest, creamiest mixture • Don't overwork the dough - a light touch keeps these cookies wonderfully crumbly • Make sure your ground almonds are finely processed for the most delicate texture • Let the cookies cool completely to achieve their signature melt-in-your-mouth consistency • For an extra authentic touch, use a traditional Spanish powdered sugar sifter when dusting • These cookies are fragile, so handle with care when transferring and storing • They actually taste better a day after baking, as the flavors develop and intensify
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
