Best 3 Moroccan Cinnamon Cookies Mantecados Recipes

Moroccan cinnamon cookies, also known as Mantecados, are a delightful treat originating from the vibrant culinary traditions of Morocco. These cookies are characterized by their delicate texture, aromatic spices, and a hint of sweetness. In this article, we present two irresistible recipes for Mantecados: a classic version and a gluten-free variation. Both recipes embrace the authentic flavors of Morocco while catering to different dietary preferences. With step-by-step instructions and a detailed ingredient list, we guide you through the process of creating these delectable cookies, ensuring a delightful sensory experience. Indulge in the rich cultural heritage of Morocco with our authentic Mantecados recipes, perfect for any occasion.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

POLVORONES DE CANELE (CINNAMON COOKIES)

Polvorones de Canele (Cinnamon Cookies) image

A Mexican-style cookie rolled in cinnamon sugar.

Provided by Cathy

Categories World Cuisine Recipes Latin American Mexican

Time 1h

Yield 24

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

1 cup butter
½ cup confectioners' sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets.
In a medium bowl, cream together 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar and butter until smooth. Stir in vanilla. Combine flour, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon; stir into the creamed mixture to form a stiff dough. Shape dough into 1 inch balls. Mix together 1 cup confectioners' sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon; roll balls in cinnamon mixture.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in preheated oven, or until nicely browned. Cool cookies on wire racks.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 126.3 calories, Carbohydrate 13.6 g, Cholesterol 20.3 mg, Fat 7.8 g, Fiber 0.3 g, Protein 0.9 g, SaturatedFat 4.9 g, Sodium 79 mg, Sugar 7.4 g

MANTECADOS RECIPE: TRADITIONAL SPANISH SHORTBREAD COOKIES

Mantecados Recipe: Traditional Spanish Shortbread Cookies image

This easy and delicious mantecados recipe will have you enjoying Spain's favorite cookies in no time!

Provided by Melanie Glover

Categories Dessert

Time 33m

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 cup of soft butter or vegetable shortening (you can also use traditional pork lard if you want)
1/2 cup of light olive oil
1 cup of white sugar
1 lemon peel (grated)
2 teaspoons of lemon juice (tip: use the same lemon that you zest)
1 egg (beaten)
2 cups of flour (tip: for a gluten-free option, try almond flour)
1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
1/2 cup of almond halves (optional)

Steps:

Preheat oven to 325°F

Nutrition Facts : Calories 216.71 kcal, Carbohydrate 19.64 g, Protein 1.67 g, Fat 14.94 g, SaturatedFat 6.66 g, Cholesterol 32.59 mg, Sodium 32.21 mg, Fiber 0.37 g, Sugar 10.05 g, ServingSize 1 serving

MOROCCAN SPICE COOKIES

Moroccan Spice Cookies image

This is adapted from an old recipe of my mother's, which I believe was from a church cookbook. I was looking for a way to use the wonderful ras-el-hanout spice blend I had on hand and came up with this. I take them to my office holiday cookie swap every year and they're always a hit. Ras-el-hanout can be found at Middle Eastern grocery stories, but I recommend the blend sold by The Spice House (www.thespicehouse.com).

Provided by melbalou

Categories Drop Cookies

Time 32m

Yield 32 cookies

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons Ras El Hanout Spice Blend
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons almond extract (vanilla also works)
32 whole almonds

Steps:

Sift flour, salt, ras-el-hanout and cinnamon into a small bowl.
In a medium bowl, whisk together butter and sugar.
Add almond (or vanilla) extract and whisk until fluffy.
Stir in flour mixture and mold dough into a ball.
Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 350°F
Roll dough into 3/4 inch balls and roll lightly in sugar if desired.
Place cookies on parchment-lined cookie sheet.
Flatten cookies with bottom of glass or back of fork and press a whole almond into center of each cookie.
Bake 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 99.4, Fat 6.5, SaturatedFat 3.7, Cholesterol 15.2, Sodium 37.3, Carbohydrate 9.4, Fiber 0.4, Sugar 3.2, Protein 1.1

Tips:

Use high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
Make sure the butter and sugar are creamed together until light and fluffy.
Don't overmix the dough, or the cookies will be tough.
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, so the cookies hold their shape.
Bake the cookies until they are just set around the edges, but still soft in the center.
Dust the cookies with powdered sugar while they are still warm, so the sugar sticks.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Conclusion:

Moroccan cinnamon cookies, also known as mantecados, are a delicious and easy-to-make treat. They are perfect for any occasion, from a casual gathering to a holiday party. With their simple ingredients and delicate flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. So next time you're looking for a sweet treat, give these Moroccan cinnamon cookies a try. You won't be disappointed!