1/2 cup shortening 3/4 cup dark brown sugar (packed) 1 egg 1/2 half cup molasses 1 1/2 teaspoon anise extract 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon cloves optional: confectioner's sugar (powdered) Heat oven to 350 degs (moderate). Mix shortening, sugar, egg, molasses and anise extract. Blend dry ingredients; mix in gradually with hands. (I use a spoon or mixer until it gets too stiff.) Knead dough until right consistency for molding. If dough seems too soft, refrigerate until firm. Mold into balls 3/4 inches in diameter; (I use a melon ball scoop) Place on greased baking sheet. Bake about 12 minutes or until golden brown on botton. Cool. Optional: Place powdered confectioners sugar in a bag, add cookies and shake. Remove cookies and store in airtight container with a slice of apple to mellow them. Cookies harden on standing. These are very good with a hot drink. I've had them both with and without the sugar. I add the sugar. dooley
Thanks for that Dooley!!!!! I was going to pm you and ask for the recipe but you beat me to it!!! I have never made these before but think I'll try it this afternoon. I like all those spices at holiday time What origin is this recipe? I'd like to find other cookie recipes that use anise extract (hint hint)
