Italian Anise Biscuits - Ciambelline all'Anice

Name: Italian Anise Biscuits - Ciambelline all'Anice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 teaspoon anise extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons anise seeds

35 min 24 cookies Easy

All Recipes

Delightful Italian anise cookies with a crunchy exterior and a tender crumb, perfect for enjoying with coffee or tea.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Ciambelline all'Anice are traditional Italian biscuits known for their unique anise flavour. These cookies are a staple in Italian households and are often enjoyed during festive occasions or simply with a cup of coffee or tea. The combination of the sweet, slightly spicy anise and the buttery biscuit creates a delightful treat that is both aromatic and comforting. The recipe is simple, yet it results in cookies that are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Pro tip: Ensure the butter is soft for easier mixing.

Add Eggs and Anise Extract

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the anise extract until well combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and anise seeds.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Pro tip: If the dough is too sticky, chill for 30 minutes.

Shape the Biscuits

Roll dough into small balls and shape into rings. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Pro tip: Use lightly floured hands to prevent sticking.

Bake the Biscuits

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Pro tip: Allow the biscuits to cool on a wire rack.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh anise seeds for the best flavour.
Ensure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
Chill the dough if it's too sticky to handle.
Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Italian anise biscuits?

Italian anise biscuits, or Ciambelline all'Anice, are traditional cookies flavoured with anise, known for their crisp texture and aromatic taste.

How long do these biscuits last?

Stored in an airtight container, these biscuits can last up to one week at room temperature.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, the dough can be frozen. Form it into a log, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to a month. Slice and bake as needed.

What is the best way to serve these biscuits?

Serve them with coffee or tea, or as a sweet treat alongside dessert wine.

Can I substitute anise seeds?

For a different flavour, you could substitute fennel seeds, though the taste will be slightly different.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Italian anise biscuits with a freshly brewed espresso or a glass of dessert wine to complement their delicate flavours. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a mid-day snack. To make ahead, prepare the dough and freeze it in a roll, then slice and bake as needed. Store baked biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

Protein

Fat

12g

Carbs

More Cookie Recipes

Italian Anise Cookies

Delight in these soft, fragrant Italian cookies infused with anise flavour, perfect for any occasion.

Easy65 min

See the recipe

Italian Fig Cookies

Delight in these traditional Italian fig cookies, filled with a rich fig mixture and wrapped in a soft, buttery dough.

Medium95 min

See the recipe

Almond Biscuits

Delightfully crunchy and nutty almond biscuits perfect for any occasion.

Easy65 min

See the recipe

Chocolate Chip Crunchy Biscuits

Deliciously crunchy biscuits with chocolate chips, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.

Easy35 min

See the recipe

Classic Empire Biscuits

Delight in these traditional Empire Biscuits, a perfect blend of soft cookies with jam filling and sweet icing.

Easy32 min

See the recipe

Classic Arrowroot Biscuits Recipe

Delight in these simple yet delicious arrowroot biscuits, perfect for tea time or as a light snack.

Easy57 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Baking · Piping Bags

100 Pcs Pastry Piping Bags 13 Inch Extra Thick Disposable Piping Decorating Bags Food Grade for Cupcakes Cookies and Frosting Perfect for Professional Baking Lover

$7.99

Pots & Pans · Non-Stick Pans

T-Fal Signature 26cm Frypan Non Stick Non Toxic Frying Pan, Thermo-Spot Heat Indicator, Dishwasher Safe, Black

$22.97

Pit Boss Grills

Expanding Smoke Tube 7-12"

$19.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.