Mantecados are a traditional Spanish almond shortbread that have been enjoyed by families for centuries. This simple recipe is made with everyday ingredients and is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, Mantecados are a great choice. In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe step-by-step and provide tips for making the perfect batch.
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Ingredients for Mantecados
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Mantecados:
- 500 grams of all-purpose flour
- 250 grams of lard or vegetable shortening
- 200 grams of granulated sugar
- 200 grams of almonds, finely ground
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- Steps to Make Mantecados
Here are the steps to make Mantecados:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, ground almonds, cinnamon, and lemon zest. Add the lard or vegetable shortening and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Form the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten the balls slightly with your fingers.
Step 4: Bake the Mantecados
Bake the Mantecados for 20-25 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the Mantecados have cooled completely, you can serve and enjoy them. These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Tips for Making Perfect Mantecados
- Use finely ground almonds for a smoother texture.
- Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the lard or vegetable shortening is evenly distributed.
- Do not overbake the Mantecados. They should be lightly golden brown and still soft to the touch when they come out of the oven.
Variations of Mantecados
There are many variations of Mantecados that you can try. Here are some ideas:
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar to the Mantecados after they have cooled for a sweeter taste.
- Use different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, for a unique flavor.
- Add some cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
Mantecados are a classic Spanish almond shortbread that is perfect for any occasion. With the simple recipe and helpful tips provided above, you can make these cookies in no time and enjoy them with your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Get baking!
