Iced Italian Knot Cookies

Perfect for Easter, Christmas, or any holiday, these Italian knot cookies are topped with a sweet frosting with a refreshing hint of anise flavor.

• Preparation Time: 40 mins
• Cooking Time: 40 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
• Calories: 101 Calories

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons water
• 3 large eggs
• 6 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• Icing:
• candy sprinkles
• 0.75 cup white sugar
• 0.25 cup warm water
• 0.75 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 0.5 teaspoon anise extract

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 2

Mix flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl.

Step 3

Combine butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; beat until smooth and creamy. Change to the dough hook and gradually mix in flour mixture. Add warm water and mix until a smooth dough forms.

Step 4

Roll dough into 1 1/2-inch balls. Roll each ball out to a 4-inch long worm. Bring one end over the other, then underneath and through the middle, like a knot. Place 16 cookies on a baking sheet, four rows of four.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven until edges are golden, 13 to 15 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6

Repeat to bake remaining 2 batches of cookies.

Step 7

Meanwhile, mix powdered sugar, anise extract, and salt together in a bowl. Mix in water, a little at a time, until desired consistency.

Step 8

Dip cooled cookies upside down into the icing, then turn over onto waxed paper. Sprinkle with candy sprinkles.