Great Grandma’s Anise Cookies: An Italian Christmas Tradition

There’s something incredibly special about recipes passed down through generations. They’re more than just a list of ingredients and instructions; they’re a connection to our past, a tangible link to the people who shaped us. For me, those recipes are often Italian, heavily influenced by my great-grandmother, Nonna Emilia. And among her cherished recipes, her anise cookies stand out, especially during the holidays.

These aren’t just any anise cookies; they’re *Nonna’s* anise cookies. They’re slightly crisp on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and bursting with the unmistakable, comforting aroma of anise. They’re the taste of Christmas Eve at Nonna’s house, the smell of love baking in the oven, and the feeling of family gathered close. They’re a taste of Italy, right here in my kitchen.

This recipe has been carefully guarded and perfected over decades. I remember standing on a stool next to Nonna, watching her nimble hands mix the dough, sharing secrets and stories as she worked. Now, I’m sharing that legacy with you. Get ready to bake a batch of these timeless treats and experience the magic of Nonna Emilia’s anise cookies.

## The Story Behind the Cookies

My great-grandmother, Emilia, immigrated to the United States from a small village in the Abruzzo region of Italy. She brought with her a suitcase full of hopes, dreams, and, most importantly, her treasured recipe book. In that book, written in elegant Italian script, were the secrets to dishes that would become the cornerstone of our family’s culinary heritage. These anise cookies, known in Italian as *Biscotti all’Anice*, were among the most beloved.

Nonna Emilia believed that food was more than just sustenance; it was a way to show love, to connect with others, and to preserve traditions. Every Christmas, she would spend days baking dozens of these cookies, carefully arranging them on platters to share with family and friends. The aroma of anise would fill her home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that everyone cherished. Even now, that scent instantly transports me back to her kitchen.

Over the years, the recipe has been tweaked and refined, passed down from mother to daughter. I’ve stayed true to Nonna’s original instructions, but I’ve also added my own little touches, learned from years of baking experience. I’m confident that this version is the best yet, capturing the essence of Nonna’s original while ensuring consistent results for the modern baker.

## What Makes These Anise Cookies Special?

So, what makes Nonna Emilia’s anise cookies so special? It’s more than just the ingredients; it’s the care and attention that goes into each step of the process. Here are a few key elements that contribute to their unique flavor and texture:

* **Anise Extract:** The star of the show! We’re using anise extract, not anise seeds, for a more concentrated and consistent anise flavor. Quality matters here; use a good-quality extract for the best results.
* **Orange Zest:** A hint of citrus brightens the flavor profile and adds a subtle complexity. Don’t skip this! Use fresh orange zest for the most vibrant aroma.
* **Vegetable Oil:** I have experimented using Olive Oil too, and I can say that the best results are always achieved with Vegetable Oil, providing a tender and moist cookie.
* **Softness:** Unlike many anise cookies which are very hard, these are very soft. You do not need to dip them in a drink. Just take them and eat them. They are ready!

## The Recipe: Nonna Emilia’s Anise Cookies

Now, let’s get to the recipe! This recipe yields about 3-4 dozen cookies, depending on the size you make them.

**Yields:** 3-4 dozen cookies
**Prep Time:** 30 minutes
**Cook Time:** 12-15 minutes

### Ingredients:

* 4 large eggs
* 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup vegetable oil
* 1/4 cup milk
* 2 teaspoons anise extract
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 tablespoon orange zest, finely grated
* 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* 4 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* Colored sprinkles, for decoration (optional)

### Equipment:

* Large mixing bowl
* Electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Zester or microplane
* Baking sheets
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
* Wire rack

### Instructions:

**1. Preheat and Prep:**

* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

**2. Cream the Wet Ingredients:**

* In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should be noticeably paler and thicker than when you started. This step is crucial for creating a light and airy cookie.
* Gradually add the vegetable oil and milk, mixing until well combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as it can lead to tough cookies.
* Stir in the anise extract, vanilla extract, and orange zest. The aroma should be intoxicating at this point!

**3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:**

* In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is essential for proper leavening.

**4. Gradually Add the Dry Ingredients to the Wet Ingredients:**

* Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be just barely combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in tough cookies.
* The dough will be soft and slightly sticky. This is normal! Don’t be tempted to add more flour at this point, as it will make the cookies dry.

**5. Shape the Cookies:**

* Lightly flour your hands and a clean work surface. This will prevent the dough from sticking.
* Pinch off pieces of dough, about 1-2 tablespoons each. Roll each piece into a ball or log shape. You can make them any size you like, but keep in mind that they will spread slightly during baking.
* Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. This will allow them to spread without sticking together.

**6. Decorate (Optional):**

* If you like, you can sprinkle the cookies with colored sprinkles before baking. This adds a festive touch, especially during the holidays.

**7. Bake the Cookies:**

* Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set. The cookies should be soft to the touch, but not doughy.
* Keep a close eye on them during baking, as oven temperatures can vary. If the cookies are browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly or tent them with foil.

**8. Cool the Cookies:**

* Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
* Allowing the cookies to cool completely on the wire rack will prevent them from becoming soggy.

**9. Enjoy!**

* Once the cookies are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week (though they probably won’t last that long!).

## Tips for Perfect Anise Cookies

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your anise cookies turn out perfectly every time:

* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** As mentioned earlier, overmixing the dough is a common mistake that can lead to tough cookies. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your cookies. Use good-quality anise extract and fresh orange zest for the best results.
* **Adjust Baking Time as Needed:** Oven temperatures can vary, so keep a close eye on the cookies during baking and adjust the baking time as needed. The cookies should be lightly golden brown around the edges and set in the center.
* **Let the Cookies Cool Completely:** Allowing the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack will prevent them from becoming soggy.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** While this recipe is based on Nonna Emilia’s classic anise cookies, feel free to experiment with other flavors. You can add lemon zest instead of orange zest, or try using almond extract instead of vanilla extract.
* **Make Ahead:** The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring the dough to room temperature before shaping and baking.
* **Freezing Instructions**: You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Make sure to put them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature.

## Variations and Additions

Want to put your own spin on Nonna Emilia’s anise cookies? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

* **Chocolate Dipped:** Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent treat. You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
* **Iced Cookies:** Make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk, and drizzle it over the cooled cookies. You can also add a drop of anise extract to the glaze for an extra boost of flavor.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the dough for added texture and flavor.
* **Citrus Glaze:** Make a citrus glaze using powdered sugar and citrus juice (lemon, orange, or grapefruit) for a bright and tangy flavor.
* **Spice it up!:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for a warm and cozy flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

These anise cookies are delicious on their own, but they’re also great served with:

* **Coffee or Tea:** The anise flavor pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
* **Vin Santo:** In Italy, these cookies are often served with Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine.
* **Ice Cream:** Crumble the cookies over ice cream for a delicious and easy dessert.
* **Gift Giving:** Package the cookies in a pretty box or tin to give as a homemade gift. They’re perfect for Christmas, birthdays, or any special occasion.

## Making Memories

More than anything, these anise cookies are about making memories. As you bake them, remember Nonna Emilia and the love and tradition she poured into every batch. Share them with your family and friends, and create your own special moments that will be cherished for years to come. Food has a magical way of bringing people together. And these cookies, baked with love, will bring smiles and warmth to everyone who tastes them.

So, gather your ingredients, put on some Christmas music, and get ready to bake a batch of Nonna Emilia’s anise cookies. I guarantee they’ll become a cherished tradition in your own family. Happy baking!

### Nutritional Information

*Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

Serving Size: 1 cookie

* Calories: Approximately 80-100
* Fat: 4-5 grams
* Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
* Cholesterol: 15-20 mg
* Sodium: 20-30 mg
* Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams
* Sugar: 6-8 grams
* Protein: 1 gram

### Conclusion

Nonna Emilia’s Anise Cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re a journey through time, a taste of tradition, and a symbol of love. Each bite is a reminder of family gatherings, cherished memories, and the simple joys of life. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. So go ahead, preheat your oven, gather your loved ones, and let the aroma of anise fill your home with warmth and happiness. Buon Appetito!

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