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A plate of soft Italian Anise Cookies topped with white glaze and colorful nonpareil sprinkles.

Italian Anise Cookies

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 36 servings
Calories 110 kcal

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.