This is traditional northern New Mexico confection. These lite cookies are commonly made with white flour; this version with some whole wheat is also quite good. Bisochitos are often served during Christmas holidays and with special feasts for weddings, baptisms, and confirmations.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 2 cups butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons sherry or wine
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon whole anise seeds
• 4 cups unbleached white flour
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon mixed with ¼ cup sugar, to sprinkle on top

Directions

Cream the sugar and butter in a large bowl. Add the 2 eggs and stir until they are well blended. Add the sherry or wine. Add the dry ingredients, 1 cup of flour at a time. Mix well between each added cupful.

Preheat the oven to 350°. Roll the dough out ¼-inch thick on a floured surface. Use a knife or cutter to create a variety of shapes. Sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon on top of each shape. Bake on greased cookie sheets for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly golden brown.

From A Painter’s Kitchen: Recipes from the Kitchen of Georgia O’Keeffe by Margaret Wood