As much as I love sharing my baked goods, sometimes I want to keep these cookies just for me. The light anise flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a perfect Christmas treat.
—P MARCHESI ROCKY POINT, NY
PREP: 40 MIN. • BAKE: 10 MIN./BATCH • MAKES: 9 DOZEN
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon anise extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons aniseed
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
Frosting and coarse sugar, optional
1. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and extract. Combine the flour, aniseed, salt, baking powder and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
2. Shape into 1-in. balls; place on greased baking sheets. Flatten with a glass dipped in sugar.
3. Bake at 375° for 6-7 minutes or until set. Cool on wire racks. If desired, frost cookies and sprinkle with coarse sugar.