Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/12 checked
12
servings
0.25 cup

butter

softened

0.25 cup

shortening

0.5 cup

powdered sugar

sifted

2 tbsp

granulated sugar

1 tbsp

red chili pepper

ground

1 tsp

vanilla

pure

0.5 tsp

salt

0.5 tsp

cinnamon

0.25 tsp

baking powder

1 cup

flour

0.5 cup

walnuts

finely ground

2 tbsp

granulated sugar

Step 1
~4 min

Beat butter and shortening in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds.

Key Technique: Mixing
Step 2
~4 min

Add powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, ground chili, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and baking powder; beat until combined.

Step 3
~4 min

Stir in flour and walnuts (if using).

Step 4
~4 min

Put remaining 2 tablespoons granulated sugar into a small bowl.

Step 5
~4 min

Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll in sugar.

Step 6
~4 min

Place on an ungreased cookie sheet (or on parchment-lined cookie sheet).

Step 7
~4 min

Flatten balls until 1/4-inch thick using the bottom of a glass.

Step 8
~4 min

Bake in a 325-degree oven for about 15 minutes or until edges are light brown.

Step 9
~4 min

Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping for easier handling.

Use a variety of chili peppers for different heat levels.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

10 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Medium (cinnamon and chili)
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a glass of milk or hot chocolate.

Serve as part of a holiday cookie assortment.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Vanilla ice cream

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Southwestern US

Cultural Significance

Inspired by desert landscapes and flavors.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Christmas
Holidays
Southwestern Festivals

Occasion Tags

Christmas
Holiday baking
Party

Popularity Score

75/100