Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out?
There is nothing like the scent of warm anise on a snowy winter day.
These Italian Anise Cookies are soft, cake-like, and so easy to make.
They bring a touch of holiday magic to your home right now.
Why You Will Love These Italian Anise Cookies
These cookies are a holiday classic that everyone enjoys.
They have a soft, cake-like texture that feels very special.
The gentle hint of anise provides a unique and cozy flavor.
They are budget-friendly and use simple pantry staples you likely have.
Your family will love the bright sprinkles and sweet glaze.
They are the perfect addition to any Christmas cookie swap.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making these is as simple as mixing a quick dough.
You do not even need to chill the dough before baking.
Just roll the dough into small balls and bake them.
Once they cool, you dip them in a smooth glaze.
Even beginner bakers will find this recipe totally doable and fun.
Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses mostly pantry staples that you likely already have on hand.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 teaspoons anise extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 3 tablespoons whole milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon anise extract (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons multi-colored nonpareil sprinkles
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the melted butter, 2 teaspoons anise extract, and 1/4 cup milk to the eggs.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into 1-inch balls.
- Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely.
- Whisk glaze ingredients together and dip the top of each cooled cookie into it.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these cookies on a pretty platter for your guests.
They pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Place them in small bags for a sweet holiday gift.
Set the table and enjoy these with your favorite people.
They are kid-approved and look beautiful on any dessert table.
Keep It Fresh
Store these in an airtight container at room temperature.
They stay fresh and soft for up to five days.
You can also freeze the unglazed cookies for later use.
Thaw them completely before adding the glaze and sprinkles.
Make the cookies a day early to save time during holidays.
Recipe Tips for Best Results
- Use a cookie scoop for perfectly even cookie sizes.
- Do not overbake or the cookies will become too dry.
- The cookies should stay pale on top when finished baking.
- Wait for cookies to cool completely before you start glazing.
- If the glaze is too thin, whisk in more sugar.
- If the glaze is too thick, add a drop of milk.
- For Christmas, use red and green sprinkles for festive flair.
- Store them in a single layer while the glaze sets.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap anise for lemon extract for a bright spring twist.
- Use almond extract for a nutty and sweet flavor profile.
- Add a drop of food coloring to the glaze for themes.
- Try vanilla extract if you prefer a more traditional taste.
- Use different sprinkle shapes for various holidays or birthdays.
Common Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake these cookies a day in advance. Keep them in a sealed container before you add the glaze. This helps keep them soft and fresh for your event.
What if I do not like the taste of anise?
Anise has a distinct licorice-like flavor that some people dislike. You can easily swap it for vanilla or almond extract. The cookies will still have a wonderful texture.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Check the bottoms of the cookies after eight minutes. They should be a very light golden brown color. The tops will remain pale and look soft.
I hope these cookies bring a little extra joy to your winter evenings. They are truly a treat for the whole family to share together. Happy baking!
— Lidia
Italian Anise Cookies
Ingredients
- 3 cups all -purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sal t
- 3 large egg s
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 teaspoons anise extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 cups confectioners ' sugar
- 3 tablespoons whole milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon anise extract (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons multi -colored nonpareil sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the melted butter, 2 teaspoons of anise extract, and 1/4 cup of milk to the egg mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into 1-inch balls, placing them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden but the tops remain pale.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before glazing.
- In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners' sugar, 3 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of anise extract until a smooth glaze forms.
- Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the glaze, let excess drip off, and immediately top with nonpareil sprinkles before the glaze sets.
