Biscochitos

Directions

1. 1
   In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 1 cup sugar and the lard on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
2. 2
   Add egg; beat to combine.
3. 3
   Add vanilla, liqueur, and zest; beat to combine.
4. 4
   Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl.
5. 5
   Gradually beat flour mixture into sugar mixture on low speed.
6. 6
   Beat in anise seeds.
7. 7
   On medium, gradually add the water and mix until dough forms a ball (add more water if necessary).
8. 8
   Wrap dough in plastic wrap; chill 30 minutes.
9. 9
   Preheat oven to 350F with rack in center.
10. 10
    Combine cinnamon and remaining 3/4 cup sugar in a small bowl.
11. 11
    On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
12. 12
    Cut dough into shapes with a 4-inch fleur-de-lis cutter; lightly sift cinnamon-sugar over each shape.
13. 13
    Place on parchment paperlined baking sheets.
14. 14
    Chill in freezer until dough is very firm, about 15 minutes.
15. 15
    Bake one sheet at a time for 12 to 14 minutes, rotating halfway through; cookies should be set but not brown.
16. 16
    Transfer the cookies and parchment to a wire rack to cool.
17. 17
    Cookies can be stored between layers of parchment in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week.