Anise Cookies (Italian Anisette)

Soft, airy, and kissed with the sweet, aromatic flavor of anise Anise Cookies are a timeless treat that brings a touch of Old World charm to every bite. Whether you know them as Italian Anise Cookies, Biscotti all’Anice, or just those festive cookies Nonna always made around the holidays, these light cookies are a nostalgic favorite. With their smooth icing glaze and signature licorice-like flavor, they’re a staple in many Italian-American homes especially around Christmas.

The best part? They’re easy to make, incredibly tender, and perfect for dunking in coffee, tea, or milk. Anise might not be the most common spice in American baking, but once you try it in cookie form, you’ll understand why it holds such a special place in Italian desserts. These cookies are gently flavored—not overpowering—and they come together with simple pantry staples, making them ideal for holiday baking or anytime you want something just a little different (but deeply comforting).

What is Anise Cookies?

Anise Cookies are traditional Italian cookies flavored with anise extract, which gives them a subtle licorice-like aroma and taste. They’re soft, cake-like in texture, and often topped with a light glaze and sprinkles. But why anise? Italians love bold, aromatic flavors especially ones that remind them of home. These cookies are a must at weddings, holidays, and Sunday dinners. And really, is there anything better than a cookie that melts in your mouth and smells like tradition? Go ahead—bake a batch and taste la dolce vita in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies aren’t just for the holidays—they’re a year-round favorite that offers:

• Unique flavor – A sweet twist on licorice that’s light and aromatic
• Soft, pillowy texture – Like a cross between a cookie and a mini cake
• Simple pantry ingredients – No complicated steps or hard-to-find items
• Perfect for gifting or cookie exchanges – Pretty, nostalgic, and always a hit
• Freezer-friendly – Bake ahead for parties or prep your holiday trays early

Whether you’re Italian or just Italian-at-heart, these cookies add a touch of old-school charm to any dessert table.

How to Make Anise Cookies

Quick Overview

This recipe comes together in under an hour. You’ll make a soft dough, chill it briefly, roll it into balls, bake until puffed, and finish with a classic anise glaze. They’re just as fun to decorate as they are to eat.

Key Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Preparation
All-purpose flour	3 cups	Sifted
Baking powder	1 tbsp	For lift and puffiness
Salt	¼ tsp	Balances the sweetness
Eggs	4 large	Room temperature
Granulated sugar	1 cup	Sweetens the dough
Unsalted butter	½ cup (1 stick)	Softened
Anise extract	1 ½ tsp	Adds licorice-like flavor
Milk	¼ cup	For moisture

For the Glaze:

Ingredient	Quantity
Powdered sugar	2 cups
Milk	3–4 tbsp
Anise extract	½ tsp
Optional sprinkles	As desired

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This gives your cookies their soft, cake-like texture.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Anise

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the anise extract. This is where the magic happens your kitchen will start smelling like the holidays already.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet, alternating with the milk, until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)

For easier shaping, refrigerate the dough for 20–30 minutes. This helps reduce stickiness and ensures nicely rounded cookies.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Allow cookies to cool slightly on a rack. Meanwhile, mix the glaze ingredients until smooth. Dip the tops of the cookies into the glaze and return them to the rack. Top with sprinkles before the glaze sets.

What to Serve With Anise Cookies

These soft, spiced cookies are even better when served with a cozy companion. Whether you’re putting together a dessert spread or looking for a little something to go with your afternoon coffee, here are five perfect pairings from your collection:

Hot Dog Casserole – Serve as a quirky dessert pairing at casual family dinners—comfort food meets sweet ending!

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread – Keep things authentically Italian by pairing these cookies with a fresh, herbed bread for a rustic dinner party spread.

Cottage Cheese Brownies – Rich and fudgy, these brownies contrast beautifully with the light, fluffy texture of the anise cookies.

Peach Cobbler Cheesecake – A fruity, creamy complement to the lightly spiced cookies ideal for a dessert tray.

Crescent Roll Hot Dogs – Another fun family-friendly main dish to serve before finishing with a plate of cookies.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Anise Cookies

1. Use Anise Extract, Not Oil – The flavor of extract is milder and more balanced for cookies. Oils can be too strong.
2. Chill the Dough – While not mandatory, a short chill helps keep cookies from spreading too much and makes them easier to roll.
3. Don’t Overbake – These cookies should be soft and cakey. Take them out just as the bottoms begin to turn golden.
4. Adjust Anise to Taste – If you’re new to anise, start with a bit less and taste the glaze before committing to a stronger flavor.
5. Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
6. Decorate Immediately – Add sprinkles right after dipping in the glaze so they stick well.
7. Store with Wax Paper Layers – If stacking, use wax or parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

How to Store and Freeze Anise Cookies

Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent the glaze from melting.

Refrigerator:
Not necessary, but if your kitchen is warm, chilling them helps keep the icing firm.

Freezer:
Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Store for up to 2 months.

To Thaw:
Let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can refresh them in a warm oven (300°F for 3–4 minutes) if desired.

FAQs About Anise Cookies

What are Anise Cookies made of?

Anise Cookies are typically made with flour, sugar, eggs, butter, anise extract, and baking powder. They’re finished with a light glaze flavored with more anise.

Why do Italians use anise?

Anise has been used in Italian baking for generations. Its licorice-like flavor is bold, nostalgic, and adds a traditional note to cookies, biscotti, and cakes.

What flavor does anise add?

Anise adds a mildly sweet, aromatic, and licorice-like flavor. It’s unique, but when used in small amounts, it enhances baked goods beautifully.

What is the difference between anise and star anise?

While both have a similar flavor, anise is a seed from the parsley family, and star anise is a star-shaped spice from a tree. They come from different plants and have slightly different intensities.

What does anise taste like?

Anise tastes like mild licorice sweet, slightly peppery, and aromatic. It pairs well with sugar, spice, and citrus.

These Anise Cookies bring timeless flavor, soft texture, and Italian heritage right into your kitchen. They’re perfect for cookie trays, holiday tables, or just treating yourself with something a little special.

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