The Cookie That Proves Italian Grandmothers Are Actually Culinary Wizards!

The holiday season always brings out the best in me, and there’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the house. One of my absolute favorites to bake year after year is the classic Go Italian Anise Christmas Cookies. These sweet, aromatic treats are soft on the inside with a slightly crunchy outside, and they hold that unmistakable anise flavor that defines this Christmas classic.

Baking these cookies is more than just a recipe—it’s a family tradition. I remember making them with my grandmother, and the joy on her face as we carefully shaped each one with love. They weren’t just cookies; they were little bursts of holiday cheer. What makes them even more special is the simplicity of the ingredients—just flour, sugar, anise extract, and a touch of love. No fancy gadgets or difficult steps. Just you, your family, and the magic of the season.

These cookies are a wonderful addition to any holiday spread and pair perfectly with Candied Peanuts, Fruit Salad, or even a warm glass of Mulled Wine. The best part? They hold their shape beautifully, so they’re perfect for gifting or sharing at family gatherings.

It’s not just a recipe; it’s a memory wrapped in every bite.


Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)

Figure 8 cookies being dipped into white icing in a glass bowl on a white marble cooktop. Nearby, iced cookies dry on wax paper or a wire rack, with colorful sprinkles scattered around.

  • A family tradition: These cookies have been part of my holiday celebrations for as long as I can remember. They’re the perfect way to bring loved ones together.
  • Simple and authentic: No complicated steps—just anise extract, sugar, and flour come together to create something so special.
  • Perfect for gifting: They make a beautiful addition to any holiday gift box or cookie exchange.
  • Customizable: Over time, I’ve experimented with a variety of sprinkles, and I love adding a little dash of color for a festive touch.
  • The anise flavor: It’s bold and unique, yet somehow comforting—one bite, and you’ll understand why this cookie has stood the test of time.

Let me know how these cookies turn out for you or if you add any of your own variations!

Figure 8 cookies being dipped into white icing in a glass bowl on a white marble cooktop. Nearby, iced cookies dry on wax paper or a wire rack, with colorful sprinkles scattered around.

Italian Anise Cookies

These soft, sweet Italian Anise Cookies are a holiday favorite, offering a unique flavor with a delicate icing. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with loved ones!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10

Equipment

  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire Rack
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Rolling Pin (optional)
  • Wax paper or wire rack for cooling

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ½ cup white sugar
  • 3 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon anise extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • Icing:
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • ½ teaspoon anise extract
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Beat butter and sugar together until creamy. Add eggs, vanilla, and anise extract.
    A glass mixing bowl on a white marble cooktop with softened butter and sugar being creamed using a wooden spoon. Surrounding the bowl are eggs and small bottles of vanilla and anise extract.
  • In a separate bowl, combine flour and baking powder, then mix into the butter mixture.
    A smaller glass bowl on a white marble cooktop, holding flour and baking powder being whisked together. A measuring spoon and a small pile of flour rest on the countertop nearby.
  • Roll dough into ping pong-sized balls and shape into figure 8s.
    Dough balls being rolled into ping-pong-sized portions on a white marble cooktop. Some dough balls are shaped into figure 8s, ready to be placed on an ungreased cookie sheet visible nearby.
  • Place on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes until golden edges appear.
    Figure 8-shaped cookies baking in the oven with golden edges forming. The oven door is slightly ajar, revealing the white marble cooktop in the foreground.
  • Let cookies cool for 1 minute before transferring to a wire rack.
    Freshly baked cookies cooling on a wire rack over the white marble cooktop. A spatula and baking sheet are nearby, with light steam rising from the cookies.
  • Mix milk, confectioners’ sugar, anise extract, and vanilla for icing.
    A small bowl on a white marble cooktop filled with icing made from milk, confectioners’ sugar, anise, and vanilla extract. A whisk and small bottles of extracts are placed next to the bowl.
  • Dip cooled cookies into icing and place on wax paper or a wire rack to dry.
    Figure 8 cookies being dipped into white icing in a glass bowl on a white marble cooktop. Nearby, iced cookies dry on wax paper or a wire rack, with colorful sprinkles scattered around.

Try More Cookie Recipes!

Please Rate this Recipe
Recipe Image

Planning to try this recipe? Save it for later on Pinterest! 📌

Archie Johnson

Hi! I’m Archie Johnson

Archie Johnson is a San Diego-born home cook who turns her kitchen into a playground of flavors. With a passion for California's vibrant food scene and a knack for creating delicious, approachable recipes, she's on a mission to show that great cooking is about joy, not perfection.

More About Me

Please Leave a Star Rating and Comment Below

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating