Anise (Italian) Christmas Cookies
Soft anise-scented Italian Christmas cookies topped with a sweet glaze and sprinkles.
Ingredients
For the cookie dough:
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons anise extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
For the icing glaze:
- 1/2 teaspoon anise extract
- decorative candy sprinkles
- 2 cups confectioners sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and butter together, then add the eggs, almond extract, and anise extract.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1½-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until set but not browned. Let cool completely.
- Whisk together the confectioners sugar, milk, and anise extract to make the glaze, drizzle over the cooled cookies, and top with sprinkles.
