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–+ servings
Anise Seed Cookies
Anise Seed Cookies are a crisp, subtly sweet cookie flavored with the warm, licorice-like essence of anise. Popular in old-world European and American holiday traditions, these cookies are prized for their delicate texture and spicy-sweet aroma. Made using baking ammonia, a traditional leavening agent known for producing ultra-light cookies, this recipe reflects a time-honored baking technique rarely used today. Perfect for dunking in coffee or tea, they are often made in large batches and stored to let their flavor deepen over time.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 37 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American, German
Servings 48 cookies
Calories 75 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb powdered sugar (about 3 ¾ cups)
  • 4 eggs (separated)
  • 1 lb flour (about 3 ½ cups)
  • 1½ tsp baking ammonia (ammonium carbonate)
  • 1 tbsp anise seed (for sprinkling)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Eggs

  • Separate the egg yolks and whites.
  • Beat whites until stiff.
  • Beat yolks until thick.

Step 2: Combine Sugar and Eggs

  • Gradually beat sugar into the yolks.
  • Fold in the beaten egg whites.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

  • Stir in flour and baking ammonia gradually to form a soft dough.

Step 4: Roll and Cut

  • Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface.
  • Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.

Step 5: Prepare to Dry

  • Place cookies on floured surface or lightly greased baking sheets.
  • Sprinkle tops with a little anise seed.
  • Let cookies dry for several hours or overnight.

Step 6: Bake

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until puffed and just barely golden.

Tips

  • Letting the cookies sit a full week (as the card states) deepens the anise flavor.
  • Replace anise seed with fennel seed for a slightly sweeter licorice note.
  • Add ½ teaspoon anise extract for a stronger aroma.
  • For a crunchier texture, roll the dough thinner before cutting.
  • Dust with powdered sugar after baking for a festive look.
  • Store in a paper-lined tin to allow them to “age” properly.
  • If baking ammonia aroma bothers you, ensure good kitchen ventilation, it dissipates during baking.
  • Cut into traditional shapes such as diamonds, rounds, or small bars.
  • Add a touch of lemon zest for brightness without altering the classic flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 75kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 1gFat: 0.4gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gTrans Fat: 0.001gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 6mgPotassium: 9mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 0.5mgCalcium: 17mgIron: 1mg
Keyword anise, baking ammonia cookies, heritage recipe, holiday treat, old-fashioned cookies, retro baking, vintage cookies
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