Christmas is right around the corner! Yes, the holiday season has started. You can bring out the ugly sweaters, hot cocoa, and everything else you have ready for the cold days.

However, you still have time to decide on the Christmas dinner menu. You have room to learn new things and maybe take your cooking to a different level. 

If you want to try something different this year, Spanish Christmas cookies may be the answer. Polvorones are traditionally made in Spain during the season, and we believe they’re the perfect match for any Christmas party.

Keep reading if you want to learn more about these tasty Spanish cookies and get our full polvorones recipe. And if you need any supplies, contact Medina Baking and Powder.

Polvorones – Spanish Christmas Cookies

Firstly, let’s explain the name of these Spanish cookies. “Polvo” means “dust” or “powder” in the Spanish language, and since many polvorones recipes include a significant amount of powdered sugar, it’s easy to understand the connection. But also, the texture of this treat is quite crumbly. So, you could say polvorones turn to dust when you start eating them. 

The history of this dessert is quite interesting as well. It’s worth mentioning that polvorones are made with pork fat, or “manteca.” And during the Spanish Inquisition, they were used to discover if Jews or Muslims were hiding in Southern Spain. Since their faith wouldn’t allow them to eat pork, they would refuse the cookies and would have to face charges.

Nowadays, most recipes include butter instead of pork fat, and these Spanish Christmas cookies are a source of joy and happiness.

Polvorones Recipe

Before starting the baking process, ensure you have everything you need to finish the recipe. Go over the ingredients list, then proceed to the instructions and make your first Polvorones batch.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Ground almonds
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp Almond extract
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup Powdered sugar

Instructions

Polvorón - Spanish Shortbread With Glass Bowls of Milk

Making these Spanish cookies won’t be challenging if you follow our detailed instructions. Don’t worry. We’ve made sure to include all details and explain each step carefully. Simply follow the text, and your dessert will turn out perfect.

Step 1

As usual, we’ll start the baking process by preheating the oven. This time, we’ll aim for 325 degrees F. Also, line a baking sheet with measured parchment paper.

Step 2

Add the butter and sugar to a base of a stand mixer and beat the ingredients together for about three minutes. Then, add the Vanilla and Almond extract and the salt, and give it a spin for another 30 seconds. 

Step 3

Lower the speed on your mixer to the lowest setting possible, and start patiently adding flour while you mix. Once it’s completely blended with the other ingredients, you can add the almonds. Mix everything once again before moving on to step 4.

Step 4

Form round balls from the mixture. Using your hands is probably the most convenient way to do this, but you’re free to try with a spoon.

Step 5

Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and leave them in the fridge. They will need about 30 minutes of rest in the cold before you start baking.

Step 6

After enough time has passed, you can place the tray in the oven. Polvorones usually take about 20 minutes, but make sure to watch them just in case. Once they are golden brown on the bottom, you can take them away from the heat.

Step 7

Dust the cookies with powdered sugar and serve right away. 

And that’s it! You’ve learned to make Polvorones. Remember that the key to any good dessert is high-quality ingredients. So, if you need a supplier for American almonds in Miami, Florida, contact Medina Baking, and we’ll help you out.