Polvorón Napolitano (Neapolitan Shortbread)

Delight in the classic flavors of Mexican Pan Dulce with this traditional Neapolitan Shortbread Cookie, known for its vibrant colors and distinct trio of flavors. As a cherished member of the "Polvorones" family, this cookie is a staple treat in bakeries across Mexico. Let’s recreate this iconic cookie with simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

• 🥣 3 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
• 🍬 1 1⁄4 cups sugar
• 🥄 1 tsp baking powder
• 🧈 1 1⁄4 cups shortening
• 🥚 1 egg
• 🍦 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 🍫 4 tsp cocoa powder
• 🍓 1 tsp strawberry extract
• 🌸 Pink food colorant

Instructions

1- Prepare the Dough:

• In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and baking powder thoroughly.
• Add shortening and the egg to the dry ingredients, mixing until you achieve a sticky dough-like consistency.

2- Flavor the Dough:

• Divide the dough into three equal parts.
• For the first part, add 1 tsp of vanilla extract and knead well.
• For the second part, add the remaining vanilla extract and cocoa powder, then knead until fully combined.
• In the third part, mix in the strawberry extract and a few drops of pink food colorant, kneading until the color is evenly incorporated.

3- Shape the Dough:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Roll each flavored dough into a 30 cm (12-inch) strip.
• Align two strips side-by-side and gently press them together.
• Place the third strip on top, creating a triangular pyramid shape, and gently press to attach.

4- Form and Bake:

• Lightly flour your workspace to prevent sticking.
• Gently press and flip the dough to maintain an even triangular shape.
• Using a bench scraper or a knife, cut the dough into 2 cm (3⁄4 inch) thick pieces.
• Transfer the pieces onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, watching for the edges of the vanilla portion to turn golden brown.

5- Cool and Enjoy:

• Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheet. They will be soft out of the oven but will harden as they cool.

6- Serve:

• Enjoy these tri-flavored shortbread cookies with family and friends, relishing their resemblance to traditional Mexican panaderia treasures.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Servings: Approximately 20 cookies
Equipment: Mixer, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Bench scraper or knife

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure that the dough is sticky but not overly wet to maintain its shape.
• Handle the cookies gently while they are warm as they will be fragile.

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Polvorón Napolitano (Neapolitan Shortbread)