Anise Almond Cookies
Anise Almond Cookies are delicate, aromatic treats infused with the warm flavors of anise seed and slivered almonds. Perfect for tea parties or festive occasions, these cookies offer a delightful crunch and a hint of licorice-like flavor that appeals to both traditional and contemporary palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly butter a cookie sheet.
- Mix flour, baking powder, softened butter, eggs, and sugar in a bowl.
- Beat the mixture well until smooth.
- Add vanilla, sherry, and anise seed, and mix well.
- Fold in slivered almonds.
- Knead the dough and form into two rolls, each 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
- Transfer the rolls to the prepared cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and cut diagonally while still hot.
- Return the cookies to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes to dry out.
- Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the cream sherry with a sweet dessert wine or even almond extract for a more pronounced almond taste. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. If you prefer a different nut, pecans or walnuts can work well in place of slivered almonds. To enhance the anise flavor, toast the seeds lightly before adding them to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These Anise Almond Cookies are perfect for tea time or as a sweet treat after dinner. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine. For a delightful dessert platter, serve alongside Peanut Butter Bars Cookies or Nana'S Quick Cake. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag or container; they can last up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Anise Almond Cookies contains roughly 158 calories, with 6g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you're not a fan of almonds, you can substitute them with chopped pecans or walnuts for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on your preference.
What is the purpose of kneading the dough?
Kneading helps to develop gluten in the dough, which gives the cookies a nice structure and chewiness. It also ensures that all ingredients are evenly mixed and incorporated.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, these cookies can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the dough, shape it into rolls, and then refrigerate or freeze them. Just slice and bake when you're ready to enjoy fresh cookies.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).