Biscochitos as they are called in Northern New Mexico or Biscochos as they are called in Southern New Mexico were introduced by the Spanish settlers in the 16th century. The name Biscocho is a form of the English word "biscuit". In Spain they are called "Mantecosos" or "Mantecados". There are other forms of this cookie around the world with different variations of the recipe or even the name such as "Pan de Polvo", "Polvorone", or "Mantechito". New Mexico made this cookie its own by making it the "Official State Cookie of New Mexico" in 1989 with New Mexico House Bill 406. New Mexico thought that this cookie was so special that New Mexico created the first official state cookie in the United States. This is how serious we are about this cookie.
Culturally in New Mexico, Biscochitos are an extremely personally emotional cookie. For example, when we are working at different shows around the state we may have a customer who gives us the greatest compliment by tearing up in front of us because they are taken back to a special family member who made biscochitos for them. This is by far our greatest compliment. We may even have the other end of the spectrum of customer who refuses to try ours so they won't offend a family member who makes biscochitos for them. Many families in New Mexico have a cherished family recipe that has been handed down for generations. As I have mentioned, we have my Grandma Maggie's recipe which is very special to us. My opinion of a true recipe for biscochitos is not necessarily my grandma's or even someone else's recipe. I believe wholeheartedly that it is the recipe that is a family treasure. I do however believe as well that there are several ingredients that are a definite must. This would be Anise, Lard, and Cinnamon. I have always seen variations in the recipe in regards to the liquid that is being used, whether it is brandy, wine, orange juice, milk, or even water. We use Brandy because this was part of my grandma's recipe. The other variation is in the amount of Anise, whether it is crushed or even if a Anise oil or liquid was used. We use the whole Anise seed.
It is important to note that the Biscochito was used for very special occasions such as weddings, baptisms, religious events, and Christmas for "Las Posadas" which usually begin on December 16th. (These are a pilgrimage reenacting the biblical story of Joseph's asking for shelter for himself and Mary) Then of