Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons anise extract

For the Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (whole or 2%)
• ¼ teaspoon anise extract
• 1 tablespoon colorful nonpareils (optional, for decorating)

🍪 How to Make Italian Anise Cookies

1️⃣ Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in anise extract for a fragrant flavor boost.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Cover the dough and chill for 30 minutes to make rolling easier.

2️⃣ Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them 1½ inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
3. Bake for 5 minutes, rotate the pans, then bake for another 5 minutes until the tops are cracked and the bottoms are lightly golden.
4. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

3️⃣ Make the Anise Icing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and anise extract until smooth.
2. Dip the tops of each cooled cookie into the icing, letting excess drip off.
3. Sprinkle with nonpareils before the icing sets.
4. Let cookies dry for at least 1 hour before storing.