Anise Cookies IV

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon anise extract
• 1 egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the anise extract and egg. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt; stir into the creamed mixture.
3. Roll dough into 1 inch balls, and place 2 inches apart on the prepared cookie sheets. Flatten each with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar.
4. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Interesting Facts

• Anise is a plant in the parsley family, native to the Mediterranean region.
• The flavor of anise is similar to licorice, but not as strong.
• Anise Cookies are a traditional holiday cookie in many countries.