Italian Anise Cookie Recipe

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Italian Anise Cookie Recipe is a beloved treat that bring the rich flavors and traditions of Italy to your home. Known for their distinctive anise flavor and soft, cake-like texture, these cookies are a staple in many Italian households, especially during the holiday season. The subtle licorice taste of anise paired with a sweet, light glaze makes these cookies both unique and irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or simply want to enjoy a delightful dessert, the Italian Anise Cookie recipe is a perfect choice. In this article, we will explore every detail of this classic recipe, from the ingredients and equipment needed to pro tips and variations.

What is the Italian Anise Cookie Recipe?

The Italian Anise Cookie recipe is a traditional Italian dessert that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and aromatic cookie. The key ingredient, anise extract, imparts a distinct licorice-like flavor that sets these cookies apart. Typically, the cookies are small, round, and soft, with a light glaze on top. They are often enjoyed during the Christmas season but can be made year-round for any occasion. The recipe involves mixing a basic dough, incorporating anise extract, baking the cookies to a soft, tender finish, and then glazing them for a sweet, glossy touch.

How To Make Italian Anise Cookie Recipe

Create culinary magic by gathering fresh ingredients, following step-by-step instructions, and adding your personal touch to make any recipe uniquely yours.

Ingredients of This Recipe

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	3 cups
Baking powder	1 tbsp
Salt	1/2 tsp
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup
Granulated sugar	3/4 cup
Eggs	3 large
Milk	1/4 cup
Anise extract	1 1/2 tsp
Powdered sugar	1 cup
Anise extract (for glaze)	1/2 tsp
Milk (for glaze)	2-3 tbsp
Sprinkles (optional)	For garnish

Equipment of This Recipe

Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Cooling rack
Whisk
Small bowl (for glaze)

Instruction Detail of This Recipe

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Anise Extract: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the anise extract and milk, mixing well after each addition.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop dough and roll into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, anise extract, and milk until smooth.
Glaze the Cookies: Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze and place them back on the cooling rack. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.
Let Set: Allow the glaze to set completely before serving.

What to Serve with This Recipe

Italian Anise Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various beverages and desserts. Some great options include:

Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavor of coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweet, licorice notes of the cookies.
Tea: Enjoy these cookies with a cup of herbal or black tea for a relaxing treat.
Ice Cream: Serve the cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or gelato for a delightful dessert combination.
Fruit: Fresh fruit, especially citrus, complements the anise flavor well.

What Does the Italian Anise Cookie Recipe Taste Like?

The Italian Anise Cookie Recipe has a unique and delightful flavor profile. The cookies are sweet with a subtle hint of licorice from the anise extract. The texture is soft and cake-like, which makes each bite tender and satisfying. The light glaze on top adds a touch of sweetness and a bit of crunch if sprinkles are added. Overall, the cookies offer a perfect balance of sweetness and aromatic flavor, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

How Healthy is This Italian Anise Cookie Recipe?

While Italian Anise Cookie Recipe is a delicious treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation. Here are some aspects to consider:

Calories and Sugar: These cookies contain sugar and butter, contributing to their calorie count. Moderation is key to keeping your diet balanced.
Nutritional Benefits: The recipe uses eggs and milk, providing some protein and calcium. However, the overall nutritional value is more indulgent than health-focused.
Portion Control: Making smaller cookies can help manage portion sizes and reduce calorie intake per serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Anise Cookie Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and high-quality anise extract make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all cookies are the same size, which helps them bake evenly.
Cool Before Glazing: Make sure the cookies are completely cool before applying the glaze to prevent it from melting.
Experiment with Extracts: If you prefer a milder anise flavor, adjust the amount of extract to your taste.

What Makes This Italian Anise Cookie Recipe Delicious?

Several factors contribute to the deliciousness of Italian Anise Cookies:

Distinct Flavor: The anise extract gives the cookies their unique licorice flavor, setting them apart from other cookies.
Texture: The soft, cake-like texture of the cookies is satisfying and contrasts nicely with the sweet glaze.
Aromatic: The anise extract adds a pleasant aroma that enhances the overall eating experience.
Visual Appeal: The glossy glaze and optional sprinkles make the cookies look festive and inviting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Italian Anise Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

Can I use anise seeds instead of anise extract?

Yes, you can use ground anise seeds, but the flavor will be slightly different and less intense.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

They stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

What other flavors go well with anise?

Citrus flavors like lemon and orange pair well with anise, as do almond and vanilla.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1 cookie)
Calories	80
Total Fat	3g
Saturated Fat	1.5g
Cholesterol	15mg
Sodium	50mg
Total Carbohydrates	12g
Sugars	8g
Protein	1g

Recipe Variation

Lemon Anise Cookies: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrus twist.
Almond Anise Cookies: Substitute some of the flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
Vegan Anise Cookies: Use plant-based butter and flax eggs to make the cookies vegan.
Gluten-Free Anise Cookies: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Conclusion

Italian Anise Cookie Recipe is a delightful and aromatic treat that brings a taste of Italy into your home. With their distinctive anise flavor and soft texture, they are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to everyday snacks. This recipe is easy to follow and yields consistently delicious results. By experimenting with variations and following pro tips, you can customize the cookies to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy these cookies with your favorite beverage or as part of a dessert spread, and savor the unique flavors they offer.

Here Are More Amazing Recipes