Anise Cookies

These buttery Anise Cookies are delicately flavored with anise extract and aniseed, offering a warm and aromatic treat perfect for any occasion. With a tender texture and the option to decorate, these cookies are as versatile as they are delicious!

Course Dessert

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 40

Cook Time 7

Total Time 47

Servings Cookies

Calories 179kcal

Author Meghan Birnbaum

Equipment

Mixer (stand or hand)
Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Baking sheets
Greased parchment paper or baking mat
Small bowl for sugar coating
Glass for flattening cookies
Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Dough

1 cup salted butter softened
1½ cups sugar
2 large eggs room temperature
¼ teaspoon anise extract use more for a stronger flavor
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 to 1½ teaspoons aniseed
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda

For Decorating (Optional)

Frosting of choice
Sprinkles

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare baking sheets with greased parchment paper or baking mats.
Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 5–7 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the anise extract, mixing until well combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, aniseed, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shape and flatten the cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball. Dip the bottom of a glass in sugar and gently press each dough ball to flatten it.
Bake the cookies: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned.
Cool and decorate: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 1–2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, decorate with frosting and sprinkles.

Nutrition