Are you craving a taste of Italy? These delightful anise cookies, known as Biscotti di Anise, are a perfect treat for any occasion. Crunchy, subtly sweet, and bursting with the aromatic flavour of anise, these easy-to-make cookies are a delicious addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Whether you're searching for quick dinner ideas or simply want a satisfying snack, this recipe delivers a simple yet incredibly flavorful experience. This recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers looking to add a classic Italian treat to their culinary skills.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon anise seeds
- ½ teaspoon anise extract (optional, for a stronger anise flavour)
- Optional: Coarse sugar for sprinkling
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents throughout the dough.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results. This step incorporates air into the dough, resulting in lighter and chewier cookies.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Anise
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the anise seeds and anise extract (if using).
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Step 6: First Bake
Place the log onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
Step 7: Slice and Bake Again
Remove the log from the oven and let it cool slightly on the baking sheet. Using a serrated knife, slice the log diagonally into ½-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet.
Step 8: Second Bake
Bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until the biscotti are golden brown and crisp.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Transfer the biscotti to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can sprinkle them with coarse sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and texture. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These delightful cookies make fantastic gifts!
Cooking Tips for the Best Biscotti:
- Don't overmix the dough. Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in tough cookies.
- For a stronger anise flavour, add more anise seeds or use both seeds and extract.
- If you prefer a less intense anise taste, reduce the amount of seeds and omit the extract.
- These biscotti are best enjoyed after they have cooled completely. This allows them to crisp up fully.
Variations:
- Lemon Anise Biscotti: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a refreshing citrus twist.
- Chocolate Chip Anise Biscotti: Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the anise seeds.
- Almond Anise Biscotti: Add ½ cup of slivered almonds to the dough for added crunch and flavour.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories Fat: 5-7g Carbohydrates: 15-18g Sugar: 6-8g Protein: 2-3g
These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe offers a healthy and delicious snack option as part of a balanced diet. Enjoy these amazing homemade Italian anise cookies!