Portuguese Biscuits
Delightful Portuguese biscuits featuring anise and a rich, buttery flavor, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with tea and coffee during special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine margarine, cream of coconut, and anise flavoring until well mixed.
- Beat eggs with sugar until smooth and add to the mixture.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour with baking powder and salt.
- Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and combine well.
- Roll the dough into pencil-sized strips and form into small rings.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until golden.
- Allow to cool and store in airtight containers or freeze in Ziploc bags.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider sifting the flour before mixing. If you want to reduce the sweetness, you can cut down on the sugar by up to a cup without affecting the structure. Anise flavoring can be substituted with almond extract for a different taste. Make sure to roll the dough evenly for uniform baking, similar to how you would for Cocoa Clouds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Portuguese biscuits with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. They also pair well with light fruit jams or spreads. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Mrs. Harvey's White Fruit Cake during holiday gatherings. These biscuits make a charming addition to dessert platters or cookie exchanges.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled biscuits in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in Ziploc bags; they will last for up to three months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Portuguese Biscuits contains roughly 3864 calories, with 11g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 399g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these biscuits without margarine?
Yes, you can substitute margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. If using coconut oil, ensure it's softened but not melted to maintain the right consistency in the dough.
What can I use instead of anise flavoring?
If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can replace anise flavoring with vanilla extract or almond extract. Each will bring a unique taste to the biscuits while keeping them delicious.
How do I know when the biscuits are done baking?
The biscuits are done when they turn a golden brown color and feel slightly firm to the touch. If you're unsure, you can insert a toothpick into one; it should come out clean. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).