Marranitos - Traditional Mexican Pig-Shaped Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240ml) molasses 1 cup (240ml) molasses
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground anise seeds 1/2 teaspoon ground anise seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat: 6g (3g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 23g (12g sugars)
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and molasses until well combined.
2. 2.
   Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, anise seeds, and salt.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
8. 8.
   Use a pig-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the Marranitos and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
9. 9.
   Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the remaining dough.
10. 10.
    Bake the Marranitos for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.
11. 11.
    Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Molasses — Use unsulfured molasses for a richer flavor.
• Ground cloves — If whole cloves are used, grind them in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle for the freshest flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
• If you prefer a softer texture, slightly underbake the Marranitos.
• Dust the pig-shaped cookie cutter with flour to prevent sticking.

Serving advice

Serve the Marranitos as a delightful snack with a cup of Mexican hot chocolate or as a sweet treat alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Marranitos on a platter, showcasing their adorable pig shape. Dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.