Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.
• Cream the butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl on medium speed until light in color and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition; batter will be thin and curdled.
• Mix in the milk, anise extract, and vanilla extract until well combined; batter remains thin.
• Add flour and baking powder; mix until combined, avoiding over-mixing.
• Form dough balls about 1.5 tablespoons each, place on baking sheets and bake for 10-15 minutes until just done before bottoms brown.
• Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
• For the icing, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and anise extract until smooth; adjust consistency with more powdered sugar or cream as needed.
• Dip the tops of cooled cookies into icing; let excess drip off, decorate with sprinkles if desired, and allow icing to set.