These cookies originated in Spain, but today they are often associated with the American Southwest, particularly New Mexico, where they are the official state cookie. Lard imparts incomparable flavor—it’s worth seeking it out, although vegetable shortening can be substituted.

　　

Ingredients

makes about 2 dozen

　　1 cup sugar, plus 3/4 cup for sprinkling

　　1 1/4 cups lard or vegetable shortening

　　1 large egg

　　1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

　　2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur, such as Grand Marnier, or triple sec

　　Finely grated zest of 1 orange

　　3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface

　　1/2 teaspoon baking powder

　　1/4 teaspoon salt

　　2 teaspoons anise seeds

　　2 tablespoons water

　　1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

　　

Step 1

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 1 cup sugar and the lard on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add egg; beat to combine. Add vanilla, liqueur, and zest; beat to combine.

　　

Step 2

Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl. Gradually beat flour mixture into sugar mixture on low speed. Beat in anise seeds. On medium, gradually add the water and mix until dough forms a ball (add more water if necessary). Wrap dough in plastic wrap; chill 30 minutes.

　　

Step 3

Preheat oven to 350°F with rack in center. Combine cinnamon and remaining 3/4 cup sugar in a small bowl.

　　

Step 4

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut dough into shapes with a 4-inch fleur-de-lis cutter; lightly sift cinnamon-sugar over each shape. Place on parchment paper–lined baking sheets. Chill in freezer until dough is very firm, about 15 minutes. Bake one sheet at a time for 12 to 14 minutes, rotating halfway through; cookies should be set but not brown. Transfer the cookies and parchment to a wire rack to cool. Cookies can be stored between layers of parchment in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week.

　　Martha Stewart's Cookies