Traditional Spanish Polvorones Recipe for the Holidays

Polvorones are a type of heavy, soft, and very humble cookie. It is one of the most iconic holiday treats. These cookies are made from almonds and dusted with powdered sugar. This dish has been passed down through the generations. They made it to the Christmas and the New Year celebrations. It expresses itself as a fancy and traditional dish. It is a dish that fills your home with the aroma of toasted flour and warm spices. 

Polvorones have a rich history that is deeply rooted in the Andalusian region of Spain. It originated in the 16th century. The towns of Estepa and Antequera are particularly famous for their production of high-quality Polvorones. Many bakeries and towns have their traditional and old-fashioned recipes. 

In this blog post, you will learn how to make a traditional polvorones recipe to have fun in the holidays at home.

What Are Polvorones?

Polvorones are traditional Spanish shortbread cookies. The name itself comes from the polvo, which is the Spanish word used for powder or dust. It has such a fine texture of the cookie and the powdered sugar on top. You will find these cookies in colorful wrapped papers at Spanish markets or bakeries. Also, it is very famous at home.

It is made with toasted flour, ground almonds, sugar, and lard. Many variations are used in this dish. Simple ingredients make a classic dish. This dish has a special place in the hearts of Spanish people. 

Basic Ingredients 

To make traditional Spanish Polvorones, you’ll need just a few pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (125g) ground almonds
• ¾ cup (90g) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (110g) lard or unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own crumbly, delicious Polvorones at home:

1. Toast the Flour

• Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F), use a baking sheet or parchment paper.
• Toast the 2 cups of flour until it turns a light golden color. 
• Stir frequently to avoid burning. Cool the flour before using.

2. Prepare the Almond Meal

• If using whole or blanched almonds, grind them in a food processor until fine (but not oily).
• Our end product would be 1 cup of ground almonds.
• Lightly toasting the almonds also adds flavor.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients.
• Add cooled toasted flour, ground almonds, ¾ cup powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. 
• Stir well to mix everything evenly.

4. Add the Fat

• Add the ½ cup of lard or softened butter to the dry ingredients.
• Use your hands or a pastry blender to work the fat into the mixture until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
• The dough should seem dry, just by pressing and mixing.

5. Shape the Dough

• After forming the dough into a ball, press it into a flat disc. 
• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. 
• This helps it firm up and makes it easier to cut.

6. Chill and Cut into Rounds

• On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1–1.5 cm (½ inch) thick. 
• Use a small round cookie cutter (or a glass) to cut out shapes.
• If the dough cracks while cutting, just press it back together gently.

7. Bake

• Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 
• Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.
• Do not overbake. 

8. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

• Cool the cookies completely on the tray.
• Once cool, generously dust them with extra powdered sugar.

“Queso Manchego isn’t just cheese—it’s a bite of Spanish heritage best savored slowly, with good wine and even better company.”

Tips for Perfect Polvorones

Making perfect polvorones is all about their unique characteristics and delicate texture. Keep these things in mind:

Good-Quality Almonds

Use fresh, high-quality almonds for enhanced flavour. This will make a big difference. Lightly toast them for extra depth.

Handle the Dough 

Don’t overwork the dough. The goal is to make a crumbly, sandy dough but not a smooth one. 

Let Them Cool Completely Before Handling

They are extremely fragile. It needs complete care. Don’t try to move off the baking tray. Cool it completely.

Add Lemon Zest or Cinnamon for Extra Flavor

You can grate lemon zest. Or use a pinch of cinnamon to add an aromatic twist.

Store Them Right

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last up to a week, and even taste better the next day as the flavors settle.

Serving Suggestions

Polvorones aren’t just delicious, you can include many serving suggestions with them. Some are given below:

Pair with a Warm Drink

• strong coffee
• thick Spanish hot chocolate 
• Spanish cava 

Add to a Spanish Dessert Tray

• Turrón, Mantecados
• Roscos de Vino 

Conclusion

These cookies are simple to make, deeply nostalgic, and perfect for bringing loved ones together. Whether you’re recreating a family memory or trying them for the first time, Polvorones are sure to become a favorite on your holiday table.

Must try this this season, and share the reviews with your friends, family, and your loved ones!