Anisbrötle

History and Background

Anisbrötle, also known as Anise Cookies, are traditional biscuits commonly found in German holiday baking. With roots going back hundreds of years, these cookies are renowned for their distinctive flavor, which comes from the anise flavor that is used. The spice, believed to have medicinal properties, was often employed to aid digestion after substantial meals, and it found its way into sweets and baked goods for its aromatic quality.

These cookies are typically enjoyed during Christmas time, and they are especially popular in regions such as Swabia, Austria, and parts of Switzerland. The dough rises during baking, creating a distinctive "foot" at the bottom, a prized characteristic informing the quality of the final product. Familiar in family gatherings and homes, Anisbrötle connects generations with the fragrant promise of the holidays.

Ingredients

• Eggs - 4 large, at room temperature
• Sugar - 2 cups
• Anise - 3 tablespoons, freshly ground
• All-purpose flour - 2 1/2 cups, sifted
• Baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon

Preparation

Begin by ensuring that you have all your ingredients ready and available. The eggs should be at room temperature to achieve the best consistency. Sift the flour and baking powder together into a mixing bowl to ensure even distribution, and set it aside.

In a large bowl, beat the eggs until they are thick and lemon-colored. This can be achieved using either a stand mixer or hand mixer, typically taking about 10-15 minutes depending on the mixing speed. Slowly begin to incorporate the sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the sifted flour and baking powder into the egg and sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly but gently to incorporate without deflating the batter. Lastly, add the ground anise while lightly folding until evenly mixed throughout the dough.

Forming the Cookies

With all ingredients well-combined, it's time to form the cookies. Note that the dough should be slightly sticky. Dust your hands with a bit of flour to handle the dough more easily. Pre-heat your oven to 300°F (150°C) before proceeding to allow the cookies to rest as the oven warms.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take a tablespoon-full of dough and, using your floured hands, roll it into a small ball, then place it on the baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk about half an inch in thickness. Ensure to space them adequately as they will expand during baking.

Cooking Process

Bake the Anisbrötle in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes. It's crucial to bake them slowly and not rush the process to ensure they dry out to the correct consistency without browning too much. Set a cooking timer to avoid overcooking, as this may lead to a less desirable texture.

After the baking time, retrieve the cookies and allow them to cool on wire racks. As they cool, you will see the characteristic "foot" form, which separates the top of the cookie from its base.

Enjoying Anisbrötle

Anisbrötle can be enjoyed in a number of ways. They are perfect for tea time and pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a warm glass of milk. Their light and aromatic quality make them a lovely treat without being overwhelming. Ideally stored in an airtight container, these cookies can last several weeks, making them a convenient holiday staple.

With this traditional recipe, you're not just baking cookies; you're embracing a piece of cultural history that has been treasured across generations, perfect for creating new memories while honoring the old.