Description
Orange Polvorones are traditional Mexican shortbread cookies infused with bright orange zest and crunchy pecans, offering a delightful citrus twist on the classic buttery treat. These soft, crumbly cookies are perfect for afternoon tea or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 150 gram Vegetable Shortening
- 150 gram Granulated Sugar
- 1 Large Egg
- 2 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
Dry Ingredients
- 330 gram All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
Add-ins
- Zest of 1 Orange
- 1/2 cup Chopped Pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Shortening and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the vegetable shortening and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just incorporated, avoiding overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Fold in Zest and Pecans: Gently fold in the orange zest and chopped pecans until evenly dispersed throughout the dough.
- Shape Dough: Divide the dough into 16 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball to prepare for baking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Flatten Cookies: Use the bottom of a small glass or shot glass to gently press each dough ball down to approximately 1/2 inch thickness for even baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating doneness.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly.
Notes
- Use freshly zested orange for the best citrus flavor and aroma.
- Vegetable shortening helps maintain the traditional crumbly texture characteristic of polvorones.
- To make a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- You can substitute vegetable shortening with unsalted butter, though texture may slightly vary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Mexican cookies, Orange polvorones, Shortbread cookies, Citrus cookies, Traditional Mexican dessert
