Italian Grandmother Anise Cookies

Transport your taste buds straight to an Italian family kitchen with these delightful Italian Grandmother Anise Cookies. Bursting with nostalgic flavors of sweet anise and a touch of buttery richness, these soft, pillowy cookies are a timeless holiday favorite. Featuring a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture thanks to a perfectly balanced dough, they’re topped with a glossy anise glaze and a playful sprinkle of colorful decor for a festive finish. Simple to whip up with just 20 minutes of prep time, this nostalgic recipe is perfect for Christmas cookie platters, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a taste of tradition. Whether you’re Italian or just love Italian desserts, these anise cookies will capture your heart—and your cravings!

Nutriscore Rating: 52/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 36

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter
• 4 large eggs
• 0.25 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons anise extract
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons whole milk (for glaze)
• 0.5 teaspoons anise extract (for glaze)
• 1 handful sprinkles

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Step 3

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4

Stir in the anise extract and milk, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 5

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.

Step 6

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms.

Step 7

Using lightly floured hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.

Step 9

Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

Step 10

To prepare the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and anise extract in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 11

Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.

Step 12

Immediately top the glazed cookies with sprinkles before the glaze sets.

Step 13

Allow the glaze to set completely before serving or storing. Enjoy your traditional Italian Grandmother Anise Cookies!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1103.9 grams (1103.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3581

Total Fat 86.40g	111%
Saturated Fat 37.10g	186%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 876mg	292%
Sodium 2133mg	93%
Total Carbohydrate 647.40g	235%
Dietary Fiber 9.90g	35%
Total Sugars 353.20g
Protein 65.70g	131%

Vitamin D 206IU	1031%
Calcium 285mg	22%
Iron 20mg	113%
Potassium 812mg	17%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.4%

Protein: 7.2%

Carbs: 71.3%