italian anise cookies

Desserts

Italian Anise Cookies

Anise cookies add flair to any holiday cookie tray. Pair them with classic buttery spritz cookies, Linzer tarts or pecan logs. For a traditional take, combine them with other favorite old-world Italian cookie recipes. If you’re looking to enjoy these cookies with a drink, opt for hot brewed coffee, tea or a homemade mug of hot chocolate.

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons anise extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup almond flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup whole milk
2 cups confectioners' sugar
3 to 4 tablespoons whole milk
1/2 teaspoon anise extract, optional
3 tablespoons sprinkles

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until pale in color, 4-5 minutes. Beat in eggs, one at a time until fluffy, 1-2 minutes. Add extracts; mix to combine. In a small bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder and salt. Add dry ingredients to the bowl with the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beating on medium-low speed until just combined. Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto parchment-lined baking sheets, 1-in apart. Bake 8-10 minutes or until just set (not browned). Remove to wire rack; cool completely.
In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners' sugar, milk and anise extract, if using. Dip the top of each cookie into the frosting; line on wire racks. Top with sprinkles; let frosting dry