Deliciously Easy Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe

Enjoy the delightful taste of Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies, a charming treat perfect for the holiday season.

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: baking, Christmas Recipe, Easy Cookies, festive treats, Holiday Cookies, Italian Anise Christmas Cookies

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 15

Cooling Time: 10

Total Time: 45

Servings: cookies

Calories: 120kcal

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Baking sheets
whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
wire rack

Ingredients

For the Dough

1 cup Butter Softened, unsalted for the best flavor
1 cup Sugar Granulated
1 tablespoon Anise Extract Avoid substitutes for best results
2 large Eggs Provide structure and moisture
¼ cup Milk Regular or almond milk for dairy-free option
3 cups All-Purpose Flour No substitutes recommended for texture quality
2 teaspoons Baking Powder Leavening agent
½ teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor balance

For the Glaze

1 cup Powdered Sugar Main component for sweetness
2 tablespoons Milk Adjust as required for glaze consistency

For Decoration (Optional)

1 cup Nonpareils Fun decorative topping

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the wet ingredients - anise extract, milk, and eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well combined.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients - all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms.
Shape the dough into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons each, and place on lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
Bake your cookies for 10-15 minutes, until tops appear set and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool cookies for about 10 minutes on baking sheets before moving them to a wire rack.
Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and remaining anise extract until smooth.
Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, then sprinkle with nonpareils if desired.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for prolonged freshness. Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 6 months.

Nutrition