This soft, chewy Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe is full of holiday flavors with a hint of cinnamon, a hint of nutmeg, and a sweet, licorice-like taste. These cookies are a favorite on a Christmas dessert platter or perfect for a holiday cookie exchange.

Anise Christmas cookies sitting on a pedestal.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy for more information.

What is Anise?

These delicate Christmas Cookies use anise oil. The flavor of anise comes from anethole, a natural compound that has a sweet, black licorice-like taste, and a small amount goes a long way. Anise is one of the oldest spices in the world, with origins traced to ancient Egypt and Rome at least 4,000 years ago. By the Middle Ages, it was a staple in many kitchens in Central Europe, including Germany, Italy, Greece, and France.

According to Gardening Know How, “[A]nise was highly prized by Ancient Romans, who baked the seeds into spicy cakes that were served at the end of feasts in order to prevent flatulence, hiccups and indigestion that could befall dinner guests. Anise was also believed to act as an aphrodisiac and was used to prevent nightmares and ward away the evil eye.”

The ancient spice is also known for its medicinal properties and aids in helping with inflammation, respiratory issues, and skin infections. It’s been noted that German monks were baking with anise as early as the 14th century. Baking with anise continues today and is a staple in many kitchens around the holidays.

Why You Will Love Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe

These irresistible, soft, and chewy cookies are filled with the flavors of the holiday season. The anise oil gives this traditional cookie a sweet, licorice-like flavor. This cookie incorporates ground pecans with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, and is the perfect addition to a holiday cookie tray.

They are simple to make, but planning ahead is important because the dough needs to chill overnight. The extra effort is more than worth the time to make these delicious cookies.

Ingredients

Finely ground pecans
Brown sugar
Baking soda
Eggs
Water
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
All-purpose flour
Anise oil

TIP: Use a food chopper to finely chop the pecans.

Pecans finely chopped in a food chopper.

Equipment Needed

TIP: I would recommend a stand mixer because this dough is very stiff and sticky.

How to Make Anise Cookies

1. Mix all of the ingredients together.

2. Refrigerate the cookie dough overnight.

3. Use a cookie scoop to scoop out the dough, then roll dough into balls.

4. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.

Scooping out the dough into balls with a cookie scoop.

Dough balls sitting on a parchment lined cookie sheet.

5. Cool on the cookie sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

6. If desired, frost the top of the cookies.

Frosted anise christmas cookies on a cooling rack.

7. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving. Place a piece of parchment paper between each layer before storing them.

Optional Frosting

Powdered sugar
Butter
Vanilla extract
Milk

Beat all ingredients until creamy.

Cookies with frosting sitting on a cooling rack.

Substitutions and Modifications

Serve them with or without frosting.
Swap finely ground walnuts or almonds for the pecans.
If using almonds, swap almond extract for the anise oil.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Serve them with a cup of coffee, a cappuccino, or chai tea.

Add them to a holiday snack or dessert tray.

Put them in a cute cellophane bag and give them as a gift during the holiday season.

Incorporate them on charcuterie boards.

Common Questions About Anise Cookies

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes. This is a great cookie to make ahead of time, because they stay for up to two weeks in an airtight container or can be kept in the freezer for up to two months.

2. Why are my cookies hard?

They may have been overbaked. Try adding a slice of apple or a slice of bread to the container to soften them up.

Enjoy These Licorice-Flavored Cookies

This Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe is a holiday favorite, and the perfect sweet treat to share during Christmas time. With a few simple ingredients, the delicious aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and anise will fill your home with holiday spirit. To round out your Christmas cookie tray, check out these delicious recipes: Candied Cinnamon Pecans Recipe, Easy No-Bake Date Balls Recipe with Rice Krispies, and Holiday Mint Brownies. Bon Appétit!

xoxo,
Molly