ANISE CUTOUT COOKIES

2 cups shortening
1 1/2 cups sugar, divided use
2 eggs
2 teaspoons anise seed
6 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup apple juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease baking sheets.

In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and 1 cup sugar until fluffy; add eggs and anise seed.

Combine flour, baking powder and salt; add to the creamed mixture. Add apple juice and mix well. On a floured surface, knead until well blended, about 4-5 minutes.

Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness; cut into 2-inch shapes. Place on prepared baking sheets.

Bake at 375 degrees F for 12-16 minutes or until lightly browned.

Combine the remaining 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon; roll cookies in the mixture while still warm. Cool on wire racks.

Source: Taste of Home magazine, April-May 1997