11 Christmas Cookies Fennel Seed Licorice Variations

Spicy Licorice Crinkles

Spicy Licorice Crinkles are a unique twist on traditional Christmas cookies that combine the rich flavors of licorice and spices for a warm, festive treat. These soft and chewy cookies offer a delightful blend of sweetness and a hint of earthiness, making them a perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter. With their crinkled tops and rich dark color, they’re sure to catch the eye of all who celebrate this season.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookies after baking.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground black pepper, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Set this mixture aside.
4. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add Eggs and Extract: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the licorice extract until evenly distributed.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as you see no flour streaks.
7. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. This step will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
8. Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out dough. Roll each portion into a ball and then roll in powdered sugar until fully coated.
9. Place on Baking Sheets: Arrange the sugared dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
10. Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies have spread and the tops are crinkled, but still soft. They should appear slightly undercooked as they will continue to set as they cool.
11. Cool Cookies: Remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy your Spicy Licorice Crinkles with a cup of coffee or tea, or share them as a unique holiday treat with friends and family!

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Fennel Seed Biscotti

Fennel Seed Biscotti are a delightful, crunchy Italian cookie that offers a unique twist with the fragrant aroma and flavor of fennel seeds. These twice-baked treats are perfect for pairing with coffee or tea, making them a wonderful addition to your holiday gatherings or brunches. Their crispy texture and subtle sweetness, combined with anise-like notes from the fennel, create a delightful experience that is both satisfying and invigorating.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, fennel seeds, sugar, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to guarantee they are well mixed.
3. Cream Butter and Eggs: In a separate large bowl, add the unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter until it’s smooth. Gradually add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Mixtures: Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until the dough is just combined. Fold in the sliced almonds using a spatula, confirming they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Form the Dough Logs: Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a log shape, about 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
6. First Bake: Bake the logs in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden and firm to the touch.
7. Cool and Slice: Remove the logs from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. After they have cooled, use a sharp knife to slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
8. Second Bake: Place the sliced biscotti cut side down on the baking sheet. Return them to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until they are crisp and golden brown.
9. Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the biscotti from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Serve with your favorite beverage or store in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy your delicious Fennel Seed Biscotti!

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Anise and Fennel Thumbprint Cookies

Anise and Fennel Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful variation of the classic thumbprint cookie, infused with the aromatic flavors of anise and fennel. These chewy cookies feature a tender, buttery base that is complemented by a sweet filling, offering a unique taste that’s perfect for your holiday dessert table. The combination of spices makes them a memorable treat that pairs beautifully with hot beverages.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the cookies.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground fennel seeds, and ground anise seeds. This mixture will form the basis of your cookie dough.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until well combined.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Form Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on the lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Create Thumbprints: Press your thumb (or the back of a measuring spoon) into the center of each cookie dough ball to create an indentation for the filling.
8. Fill with Jam: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of your choice of jam into each thumbprint indentation.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden.
10. Cool the Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Anise and Fennel Thumbprint Cookies will make a flavorful addition to your holiday baking, offering a unique twist that is sure to impress your guests! Enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

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Licorice-Infused Gingerbread Men

Licorice-Infused Gingerbread Men are a festive twist on the traditional gingerbread cookie, featuring the distinct flavor of licorice that adds a unique depth to the classic holiday treat. This recipe yields soft and fragrant cookies that can be decorated in various fun ways, making them a perfect addition to your Christmas cookie assortment. The licorice flavor pairs wonderfully with spices like ginger and cinnamon, creating a delightful balance that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for the cookies.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This will create the dry base for your dough.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and brown sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the molasses, egg, and anise extract to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well until everything is fully incorporated.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should be soft but not sticky.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
7. Roll and Cut Cookies: Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge and sprinkle some flour on a clean surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread men shapes and place them onto the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Decorate (Optional): Once cooled, you can decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or the finely chopped black licorice for added flair and taste. Enjoy your Licorice-Infused Gingerbread Men as part of your holiday festivities!

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Fennel Seed Shortbread Cookies

Fennel Seed Shortbread Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the buttery richness of shortbread with the distinct anise-like flavor of fennel seeds. These cookies are not only easy to make but also provide a unique twist on traditional shortbread, making them a perfect addition to your festive cookie platter. Their crisp texture and aromatic flavor will leave your guests pleasantly surprised and satisfied.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Toast Fennel Seeds: In a small skillet, toast the fennel seeds over low heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients: Add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, toasted fennel seeds, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the butter mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
5. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
6. Slice and Prepare for Baking: After chilling, remove the logs from the fridge and unwrap them. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) if not already done. Slice each log into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
7. Optional Egg Wash: If desired, you can brush the tops of the cookies with egg white to give them a shiny finish before baking.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
9. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your Fennel Seed Shortbread Cookies with tea or coffee!

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Chewy Licorice and Almond Cookies

Chewy Licorice and Almond Cookies are a unique and flavorful holiday treat that perfectly blends the rich, distinctive taste of black licorice with the nutty crunch of almonds. These cookies offer a delightful chewiness that is sure to please both licorice lovers and those looking for something a little different to add to their festive cookie assortment. With their aromatic flavor and chewy texture, they’ll unquestionably be a conversation starter at any holiday gathering.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the molasses and black licorice extract until fully incorporated.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until the dough just comes together; be careful not to overmix.
6. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave enough space between each cookie. Press a few sliced almonds onto the top of each cookie for added crunch and decoration.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear soft, which is perfectly fine as they will continue to firm up while cooling.
8. Cool on Baking Sheets: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy your chewy licorice and almond cookies as a festive addition to your holiday cookie collection!

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Fennel and Anise Sugar Cookies

Fennel and Anise Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, offering a fragrant blend of sweet and aromatic flavors. The combination of fennel seeds and anise extract not only amplifies the cookies’ taste but also gives them a distinctive herbal note that sets them apart from typical holiday treats. These cookies are perfect for sharing and will be a unique addition to your festive cookie platter.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Egg and Flavorings: Beat in the egg until well combined, then mix in the anise extract and fennel seeds. Verify all ingredients are integrated smoothly.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will help to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on a low speed until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.
6. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
8. Cool on Baking Sheets: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Optional Dusting: If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Enjoy your flavorful Fennel and Anise Sugar Cookies as a unique addition to your holiday celebrations!

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Licorice Espresso Brownies

Licorice Espresso Brownies are a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee with a unique hint of licorice, creating a sophisticated treat for any holiday gathering. These fudgy brownies are perfect for those who enjoy distinctive flavors and a bold coffee kick. With each bite, you’ll experience the lusciousness of chocolate balanced with the aromatic essence of espresso and a subtle twist from the licorice.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Remove the saucepan from heat once melted, allowing it to cool slightly.
3. Mix Sugars and Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until well blended. Next, add the large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla extract into the mixture.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, baking powder, and salt. This step guarantees that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Integrate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can affect the texture of the brownies.
6. Add Licorice Flavor: Stir in the licorice extract and dark chocolate chips into the batter until they are evenly distributed.
7. Spread Into the Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula for a uniform surface.
8. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool and Cut: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. After cooling, lift them out using the parchment paper, if using, and cut into squares.

Enjoy your uniquely flavored Licorice Espresso Brownies!

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Fennel Seed Oatmeal Cookies

Fennel Seed Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful twist on classic oatmeal cookies, combining the chewy texture of oats with the aromatic, slightly sweet flavor of fennel seeds. These cookies offer a unique taste experience that is both comforting and intriguing, making them a perfect treat for festive occasions or everyday indulgence.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, fennel seeds, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are well mixed.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until the flour is visible.
6. Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): If desired, fold in the dark chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.
9. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve: Enjoy your Fennel Seed Oatmeal Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply as a sweet treat any time of day!

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Chocolate-Dipped Licorice Twists

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Workspace: Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the chocolate from sticking once you dip the licorice twists.
2. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Heat the mixture in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
3. Dip the Licorice Twists: Take each licorice twist and dip one end into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s coated to your preference. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
4. Place on Baking Sheet: Carefully lay the dipped licorice twists on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart to prevent sticking.
5. Add Sea Salt (Optional): If desired, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets for a sweet and salty flavor contrast.
6. Chill to Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has completely hardened.
7. Serve: Once the chocolate is set, remove the licorice twists from the refrigerator. They are now ready to be served as a delicious holiday treat!

Enjoy your Chocolate-Dipped Licorice Twists!

Fennel and Orange Zest Cookies

Fennel and Orange Zest Cookies are a delightful and aromatic treat that perfectly blend the subtle anise flavor of fennel seeds with the bright and invigorating notes of orange zest. These cookies are not only unique in flavor but also bring a festive touch to your holiday cookie platter. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends or for enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the cookies to bake evenly once they are ready to go in the oven.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and fennel seeds until well combined. This will ascertain that the fennel seeds are evenly distributed throughout the cookies.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Add Orange Zest: Gently fold in the orange zest with a spatula, ascertaining it is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
9. Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve: Once cooled, these Fennel and Orange Zest Cookies are ready to be enjoyed. They’ll bring a unique flavor to your holiday gatherings!

Enjoy your festive Fennel and Orange Zest Cookies!