Biscochos facts for kids
Biscochos (say "bis-KOH-chos") are yummy, crunchy, ring-shaped cookies. People also call them biscochos de huevo or biscotios. These special cookies are a big part of Sephardi Jewish traditions. Families often make them for holidays like Hanukkah and Purim.
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What Are Biscochos?
Biscochos are small, round cookies shaped like rings. They are baked twice, which makes them super crunchy! They are a bit like another cookie called an "abadi."
The dough for biscochos is usually made with flour, oil, sugar, and a splash of orange juice. Sometimes, people add vanilla or anise (a spice that tastes a bit like licorice) for extra flavor.
After baking, biscochos often get a special topping. Some are sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. Others are brushed with an egg wash and then topped with sesame seeds.
Where Do Biscochos Come From?
Biscochos first came from the Sephardi Jewish community in Spain. In the 1400s, many Sephardi Jews had to leave Spain. They moved to places like North Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey. They took their traditions and recipes, like biscochos, with them!
Today, you can find biscochos in many countries. They are especially popular in the United States and Israel. This is because many Sephardi Jews moved to these countries over the years.
How Are Biscochos Made?
Making biscochos takes a bit of care! Jonathan Arogeti, who bakes these cookies at his synagogue, says the dough needs to be rolled very thin. It should be about as thin as a pencil. Then, bakers twist the thin dough and shape it into the famous circle. Older bakers often check to make sure each piece of dough is just right – not too thick!
When Are Biscochos Popular?
Biscochos are very popular among people in the Sephardi Jewish community. They are often eaten during Hanukkah and Purim. These cookies are a sweet way to celebrate these special Jewish holidays.
Biscochos in the United States
Sephardic Jewish Americans often make biscochos de huevo for holidays and special events. For example, at the Or VeShalom Congregation in Atlanta, Georgia, people bake biscochos for their "Hanukkah Bazaar."
This bazaar is an annual event that has been happening since 1972. It celebrates Hanukkah and offers many delicious Sephardi cookies, pastries, and other baked goods. The biscochos made at Or VeShalom are usually topped with cinnamon sugar.
