mantecados

Mantecados are a type of Spanish shortbread cookie. The name derives from the Spanish word "manteca," meaning lard, which is a key traditional ingredient and contributes to their crumbly texture. While lard is classic, modern recipes often use butter or other fats.

These cookies are typically made with flour, sugar, and fat, along with flavorings such as cinnamon, lemon zest, or anise. They are characterized by a very tender, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Mantecados are often baked until they are lightly golden, but not browned, to preserve their delicate texture.

Mantecados are particularly popular during the Christmas season in Spain, forming a staple of festive sweet platters. They are enjoyed with coffee, tea, or as a standalone treat. The cookie's simplicity allows for variations in flavor and shape, though the basic buttery, crumbly profile remains consistent. They are a common sweet found in bakeries and homes across Spain.