Italian Anise Cookies

Name: Italian Anise Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs (room temperature); 2 teaspoons anise extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted); 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon anise extract

65 min 24 cookies Easy

All Recipes

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

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

65 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Italian Anise Cookies are a beloved treat in countless Italian households, often gracing the dessert table during holidays and special gatherings. Their soft texture, coupled with the distinctive, sweet licorice flavour of anise, makes them a standout cookie. This version of Italian Anise Cookies is designed to be both authentic and approachable, ideal for bakers of all skill levels. The cookies are tender and aromatic, providing a nostalgic taste of Italy with every bite. Whether you're familiar with anise or trying it for the first time, these cookies offer a delightful experience that captures the essence of Italian baking. Perfect for coffee breaks or as a sweet ending to your meal, they're sure to become a favourite in your cookie repertoire.

Instructions

Prepare the cookie dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Pro tip: Be sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.

Add wet ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the anise extract until evenly incorporated.

Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Pro tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Chill the dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Shape and bake the cookies

Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.

Pro tip: Cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Prepare the glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and anise extract until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk if necessary.

Glaze the cookies

Once cookies are cooled, dip the tops in the glaze and place them on a wire rack to set.

Pro tip: For a festive touch, add sprinkles before the glaze sets.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh anise seeds for maximum flavour.
Chill the dough to make it easier to handle.
Adjust the icing consistency by varying the milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Italian cookies with anise?

Italian cookies with anise are soft, sweet cookies flavoured with anise extract, giving them a distinctive licorice-like flavour.

How many calories are in an Italian anise cookie?

Each Italian anise cookie contains approximately 120 calories.

Can I substitute anise extract with anise seeds?

Yes, you can use anise seeds, but the flavour will be less intense. Use 1 tablespoon of crushed anise seeds as a substitute.

How long do Italian anise cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container, they last up to a week at room temperature.

Can these cookies be frozen?

Yes, freeze them unglazed. Thaw and glaze them when ready to serve.

What is the best way to serve Italian anise cookies?

Serve with espresso or dessert wine for a traditional Italian treat.

Do Italian anise cookies need to be refrigerated?

No, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Italian Anise Cookies with a cup of espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine for a truly Italian experience. They are also delightful on their own as an afternoon treat. If you plan to make these cookies ahead of time, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them before icing and then thawing and glazing them when ready to serve.

Nutrition per serving

120

Calories

Protein

Fat

20g

Carbs

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