Italian Anise Cookies

This recipe is as close as I can get to my grandmother's and was given to me by an elderly Scilian friend.

2 Sticks (1 cup) Margarine, softened
8 oz cream Cheese, softened
1 Cup Sugar
5 Eggs
5 Tsp Anise Flavoring
5 Cups flour
6 tsp Baking Powder
speck salt

Cream together margarine and cream cheese add sugar beat well add eggs one at a time and beat well add flavoring, flour, BP, and salt Bake at 350 about 10 minutes til brown bottom on a ungreased cookie sheet the ball you roll should be about the size of a walnut and you may have to flour your hands.

Icing is confectioner's sugar, milk and anise flavoring and then add sprinkles.

Scilian Anise Cookie - Variation
I remember as a child having dad prepare these in an almond shape and cover with colored icing at the holidays what a special treat along with the fig/nut stuffed cookie dough cookie wedges. Thanks for the memories. - Linda Ochipinti