Name: Simply the Best Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Softened); 1 cup Sugar; 2 teaspoons Anise Extract; 2 large Eggs; 2 tablespoons Milk; 3 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 tablespoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Nonpareils (Decorative toppings); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For glazing)

Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe

As the holiday season approaches, the enchanting aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air in my kitchen, transporting me to cherished memories of family traditions. These Easy Italian Anise Christmas Cookies are not just any treats; they’re a delightful blend of soft, moist cookie bliss kissed with the unmistakable flavor of anise. The moment you bite into one, the sweet, aromatic essence wraps around you like a warm hug, making each cookie a celebration of comfort and nostalgia.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up a batch, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness without the fuss. Perfectly glazed and adorned with colorful nonpareils, these cookies not only shine on your holiday platters but also add a touch of joy to any gathering throughout the year. So, whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or just craving a little treat, let’s dive into this recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!

Why will you love this Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Delicious flavor: The anise extract infuses each bite with a unique, aromatic taste that is both comforting and festive.
Versatility: While ideal for Christmas, enjoy these delightful cookies year-round or at any celebration.
Visually appealing: The colorful nonpareils give these cookies a cheerful look, sure to impress guests on any dessert table.
Quick baking time: With only 10-15 minutes in the oven, you can have warm, homemade cookies ready in no time!

Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe

Get ready to bake delicious memories!

For the Cookies
• Butter – Softened, it adds richness and moisture; margarine can be used as a substitute.
• Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; for a reduced-calorie option, you can substitute with a sugar alternative.
• Anise Extract – This key flavoring ingredient gives an authentic taste; use anise seeds for a more intense flavor.
• Eggs – They bind the ingredients together; you can use flax eggs for a vegan version.
• Milk – Adds moisture to the cookie dough; for a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk works beautifully.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; you can substitute with a gluten-free flour mix if desired.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise, so ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors of the cookies; no substitute is necessary here.
• Nonpareils – These decorative toppings add a cheerful touch; feel free to use colorful sprinkles instead.
• Powdered Sugar – Used for the glaze to provide sweetness; sugar-free alternatives are also available.

This Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe captures the essence of holiday cheer in every bite!

How to Make Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to get the baking rolling. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden finish.
Cream the softened butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. This step is essential as it adds air to the mixture, which contributes to a delightful texture.
Add the anise extract, milk, and eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. The aromatic anise flavor will start to fill your kitchen—it’s truly magical!
Incorporate the all-purpose flour gradually, mixing until just combined. Then, add the baking powder and salt, ensuring everything is well-blended for perfect rising.
Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. Scoop out dough into 1.5 tbsp balls and place them on the sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each ball for room to spread.
Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the tops of your cookies look dry, testing doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center. They should come out clean—this indicates perfect moisture!
Cool the cookies for about 10 minutes on the baking sheets before transferring them to wire racks for complete cooling. This ensures they’re firm enough for glazing.
Mix the glaze by combining powdered sugar, milk, and anise extract until you achieve a smooth consistency. Adjust the thickness with added powdered sugar or milk as necessary.
Dip the cooled cookies into the glaze and immediately sprinkle with colorful nonpareils for that extra festive touch—make the cookies truly shine!

Optional: Serve these delightful cookies with a warm cup of coffee or milk for an unforgettable treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize these cookies to match your taste and dietary needs—the possibilities are delightful!

Almond Twist: Swap anise extract for almond extract to create a different flavor profile that’s just as enticing.
Citrus Zing: Add freshly grated lemon or orange zest to the dough, giving your cookies a refreshing touch that brightens the flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: After glazing, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cookies for an indulgent twist that takes them to the next level.
Spiced Delight: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice kick that’s perfect for the holidays.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to create a cookie that everyone can enjoy without missing out on flavor or texture.
Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and opt for dairy-free butter for a completely dairy-free cookie that’s equally delicious.
Extra Sweet: If you enjoy a sweeter cookie, increase the sugar or drizzle a little extra powdered sugar glaze on top for added sweetness.

Tips for the Best Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies

Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies during baking to ensure they remain soft and moist. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean but not dry.

Taste Test Your Anise: Start with a small amount of anise extract to suit your preferences. Anise flavor can be strong, so adjust as needed for the best Italian anise Christmas cookies.

Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky, consider chilling it for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle while shaping.

Storage Wisdom: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, ensuring they maintain their softness.

Decorating Secrets: Glaze your cookies quickly after cooling while the surface is slightly tacky to help nonpareils stick better for a festive finish!

What to Serve with Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies?

These delightful cookies will transform your gathering into a cozy festive celebration, perfect for the holiday season.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy and chocolaty goodness pairs with the cookies, creating a heavenly match to savor by the fireside.
Fresh Brewed Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee contrast beautifully with the sweet anise, enhancing the aromatic experience of each bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream adds a luscious creaminess, balancing the cookies’ texture with a cooling touch.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced beverage beckons holiday cheer and complements the cookies with a harmonious blend of flavors that transport you to festive gatherings.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the cookies, brightening your palate and adding a vibrant touch to the dessert spread.
Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, creates a delightful savory contrast, making for a sophisticated finishing touch to your holiday table.

Indulging in these pairings will not only elevate your cookie experience but also weave a rich tapestry of flavors that’ll resonate with your cherished holiday memories.

Make Ahead Options

These Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For optimal results, scoop the dough into balls before refrigerating to make it even easier when you’re ready to bake. If you’re planning ahead, the baked cookies can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days after cooling, ensuring they remain soft and delicious. Just glaze and sprinkle with nonpareils right before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven sweetness. By prepping ahead, you’ll have delightful holiday treats ready to enjoy with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious for snacking.

Fridge: If glazed, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. The glaze can lose its texture when stored at room temperature for too long.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer for up to 6 months. Add a layer of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy previously frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes. They’ll taste like fresh-baked Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies!

Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of anise extract should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely use high-quality anise extract for an authentic taste. If you want to intensify the flavor further, you can also add a small amount of crushed anise seeds into the dough. Start with one teaspoon of anise extract, and adjust to your taste, but keep in mind a little goes a long way.

How should I store my Italian Anise Christmas Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they are glazed, it’s best to keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, as this helps maintain the glaze’s glossy texture and the cookies’ softness.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can! Freeze the undecorated cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for approximately 1-2 hours, then transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag with layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored this way for up to 6 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very common! If you find your dough is too sticky to work with, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This chilling time will make it easier to scoop and shape into balls without sticking to your hands. Handling the dough lightly will also keep them soft and tender!

Can pets eat these cookies?
While these delightful Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies are perfect for humans, they are not suitable for pets—especially the anise extract and sugar content. It’s best to keep them away from your furry friends, as some ingredients could be harmful to pets.

How can I enhance the festive feel of these cookies?
For a cheerful twist, consider adding citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to the dough before baking! You can also experiment with using different types of sprinkles on top of the glaze for variety in color and texture, making your cookie platter even more festive and inviting.