Anisette Cookies Recipe

If you’re a fan of traditional Italian desserts, you’re going to love these Anisette Cookies. These delicate cookies are flavored with anise, giving them a slightly sweet, licorice-like taste that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. Topped with a simple glaze and colorful sprinkles, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.

I grew up enjoying anisette cookies at family gatherings, and they were always one of my favorite treats. The tender, cake-like texture and unique flavor make them stand out on any cookie tray. They’re easy to make, and their festive appearance makes them perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday parties.

Let’s dive into this Anisette Cookies Recipe and create a little piece of Italian tradition in your kitchen!

Quick Overview in Todd Wilbur’s Style

These Anisette Cookies are soft, cake-like cookies with a subtle anise flavor, topped with a simple sugar glaze and festive sprinkles. Perfect for holidays, weddings, or anytime you want a touch of sweetness, these cookies are easy to make and full of charm.

Why You’ll Love Anisette Cookies

Soft, Flavorful, and Festive

• Classic Italian Flavor: The anise extract gives these cookies their signature taste.
• Perfectly Sweetened: The glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Great for Gifting: Their festive appearance makes them ideal for sharing.

What You Need for Anisette Cookies

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp anise extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Glaze:

• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp anise extract (or vanilla for a milder flavor)
• Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

How to Make Anisette Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Extracts
   Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the anise extract and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape the Cookies
   Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake
   Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Glaze
   In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and anise extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
8. Glaze and Decorate
   Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them back on the wire rack and sprinkle with festive decorations if desired. Let the glaze set before serving or storing.

Tips for Perfect Anisette Cookies

1. Don’t Overbake: The cookies should remain soft and tender, so remove them as soon as the bottoms are lightly golden.
2. Customize the Flavor: Adjust the amount of anise extract to suit your taste. For a milder flavor, use half anise and half vanilla.

Substitutions and Variations

• Flavor Options: Swap anise extract with almond, lemon, or orange extract for a different flavor profile.
• Add Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a citrusy twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a gluten-free version.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar in the dough and glaze slightly without compromising flavor.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Closing Thoughts

And there you have it—Anisette Cookies, a timeless Italian treat that’s perfect for any celebration. Whether you’re baking them for the holidays, a wedding, or just because, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your table. Don’t forget to share them with friends and family—and enjoy every sweet, tender bite!

Frequently Asked Questions for Anisette Cookies

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
   Yes! These cookies stay fresh for up to a week in an airtight container.
2. Can I freeze Anisette cookies?
   Absolutely! Freeze them (unglazed) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Glaze them after thawing.
3. What’s the best way to store these cookies?
   Store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
4. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, this recipe doubles easily to make a larger batch.
5. What if I don’t like anise flavor?
   Substitute with vanilla, almond, or citrus extracts for a different flavor.
6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
7. Do I need a stand mixer?
   No, a hand mixer works just fine for this recipe.
8. How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
   Add more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner consistency.
9. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
   Use a plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for the glaze.
10. What sprinkles work best?
    Nonpareils or sugar crystals work beautifully, but any festive sprinkles will do.
11. Can I add food coloring to the glaze?
    Yes! A drop of food coloring can make the glaze match any holiday or theme.
12. What’s the yield for this recipe?
    This recipe makes about 24–30 cookies, depending on the size.

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