Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe

Step into the festive season with a delightful treat that will fill your home with the warm aroma of the holidays. These Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies are the perfect blend of sweetness and spice, making them a lovely addition to any holiday gathering or a thoughtful gift for loved ones. With a hint of anise flavor, these cookies are sure to become a new seasonal favorite. Let’s get baking!

**Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon anise extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the anise and vanilla extracts.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

These Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for sharing joy and creating lasting memories during the holiday season. The subtle anise flavor adds a unique touch to these cookies, making them stand out among other traditional treats. Feel free to customize the shapes and sizes to suit your holiday theme or get creative with decorative icing and sprinkles. Enjoy these cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or wrap them up in a pretty box for a thoughtful gift. Add this recipe to your holiday baking repertoire and bring a taste of Italy to your Christmas celebrations. Happy baking!