These traditional Spanish crumble cakes or "mantecados" crumble very easily. In fact, they are so soft, they will literally melt in your mouth. Light and with a delicate anise flavor, words will not do them justice. You'll have to make them to see why they are a Spanish favorite and why no Spanish home is without "mantecados" at Christmas!

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: 7 dozen 2.5 inch cookies

Gather and measure all ingredients.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 4 egg yolks
• 2 shot glasses of anise (see note below for substitute)
• 1 lemon peel, grated
• juice from 1 lemon
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 7 1/4 cup unbleached white flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 egg white, beaten for glaze

Makes approximately 7 dozen cookies approximately 2 1/2 inches round.

Substitution Note: Anise-flavored liqueur can be purchased at most liquor stores and some gourmet supermarkets. If you cannot find it in your area, substitute 2 shot glasses of vodka and 1 1/2 tsp of anise extract.