Italian Anise Delight Cookies with Creamy Frosting
Indulge in these delightful cookies inspired by traditional Italian flavors! These Italian Anise Delight Cookies are soft, cake-like treats that puff up beautifully in the oven. Infused with a rich anise extract, they offer a distinct licorice flavor that pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal dunking cookie. The cookies are finished off with a luscious creamy frosting and playful sprinkles, creating a delightful visual treat. Perfect for dessert tables, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
unsalted butter
1/4 cup (softened)
shortening
1/4 cup (softened)
granulated sugar
3/4 cup (none)
large eggs
2 (beaten)
flour
3 1/2 cups (none)
baking powder
7 teaspoons (none)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
anise extract
1 tablespoon (none)
light cream
2/3 cup (or half-and-half)
butter
1 tablespoon (for frosting)
powdered sugar
2 1/2 cups (for frosting)
milk
1/4 cup (for frosting)
anise extract
1 1/2 teaspoons (for frosting)
colored sprinkles
as needed (for decoration)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Italian Anise Delight Cookies?
Italian Anise Delight Cookies are soft, cake-like treats infused with anise extract and topped with a creamy frosting and sprinkles.
What flavor do these cookies have?
These cookies feature a distinct licorice-like flavor thanks to the use of high-quality anise extract in both the dough and the frosting.
What is the texture of Italian Anise Delight Cookies?
The texture is soft and cake-like, allowing them to puff up beautifully during the baking process.
Are these cookies suitable for dunking?
Yes, their soft yet sturdy structure makes them an ideal cookie for dunking into coffee or tea.
What kind of frosting is used for these cookies?
The cookies are topped with a luscious creamy frosting made from powdered sugar, milk, butter, and anise extract.
Can I use half-and-half instead of light cream?
Yes, the recipe specifies that half-and-half is an acceptable substitution for light cream in the cookie dough.
What kind of fat is used in the dough?
The dough uses a combination of 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter and 1/4 cup softened shortening.
How many eggs are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 large eggs that should be beaten before being added to the mixture.
Why do the cookies puff up?
The inclusion of 7 teaspoons of baking powder helps the cookies rise and achieve their characteristic puffed, cake-like appearance.
What type of sugar is used in the cookie dough?
The dough is sweetened with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar.
What is the primary leavening agent in these cookies?
Baking powder is the primary leavening agent used in this recipe.
Are there sprinkles on these cookies?
Yes, colored sprinkles are added to the frosting for a playful and festive decoration.
Is there salt in the cookie dough?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of salt is included to balance the sweetness of the dough.
How much anise extract is used in the dough?
One tablespoon of anise extract is used in the cookie dough to provide a rich flavor.
Is there anise extract in the frosting too?
Yes, the frosting includes 1 1/2 teaspoons of anise extract to complement the flavor of the cookie.
How much flour is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 3 1/2 cups of flour for the cookie base.
What type of sugar is used for the frosting?
Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners' sugar, is used to create a smooth and creamy frosting.
When should I serve these cookies?
These cookies are perfect for dessert tables, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet afternoon snack.
How many ingredients are in the entire recipe?
There are 14 distinct ingredients used to make the cookies, frosting, and decorations.
Is the butter for the frosting softened?
While the dough butter is softened, the frosting calls for 1 tablespoon of butter combined with milk and sugar.
What is the main flavor profile of Italian desserts like this?
Italian desserts often use flavors like anise, which provides a aromatic and slightly sweet licorice profile.
Can I make these for a holiday party?
Yes, they are described as an ideal treat for holiday gatherings and will impress friends and family.
Do I need to beat the eggs?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the 2 large eggs should be beaten before mixing.
What makes the cookies look festive?
The combination of white creamy frosting and vibrant colored sprinkles makes them look very festive.
Is milk used in this recipe?
Milk is used in the frosting to achieve the right consistency, while cream is used in the cookie dough.
How much powdered sugar is in the frosting?
The frosting uses 2 1/2 cups of powdered sugar.
Can children enjoy these cookies?
Yes, the soft texture and sweet sprinkles make them a hit with people of all ages.
What color are the sprinkles?
The recipe suggests using colored sprinkles, so you can use any variety you prefer for decoration.
What is the best drink to pair with these cookies?
They pair perfectly with a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
Are these cookies hard or soft?
These are soft, cake-like cookies rather than crunchy or hard ones.