20-Minute Air Fryer Italian Anise Cookies
These tender Italian-style cookies get a modern twist with air fryer cooking, creating perfectly soft treats in just minutes. Flavored with aromatic anise and vanilla, each cookie is dipped in a sweet milk glaze that hardens to a beautiful finish. The air fryer method produces consistent results without the need to heat a full oven, making these ideal for small batches or when you want fresh cookies quickly. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you crave a classic Italian sweet with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- ½ cup vegetable oilmelted butter1:1dairytextureadds dairy
Creates richer flavor and slightly different texture
Full guide → - ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon anisealmond extract1:1flavoradds tree_nuts
Use same amount for different flavor profile
- 2 ⅝ cup all-purpose flourgluten-free flour blend1:1gluten-freegluten-free
Use 1:1 baking flour for best results
- 3 teaspoons baking powder, level
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- 1
Mix vegetable oil, sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, and anise in a large mixing bowl
- 2
Mix until frothy
- 3
Add flour and baking powder, adding extra flour if dough is too sticky
- 4
Spray air fryer tray or line basket with parchment paper
- 5
Drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto prepared surface
- 6
Air fry at 320 degrees F for 3 minutes until cooked through
- 7
Let cookies cool completely
- 8
Mix powdered sugar and milk until consistency resembles glue
- 9
Dip each cookie in icing and sprinkle with decorations
- 10
Plate and serve
Tips
Test dough consistency before shaping - it should not be sticky to the touch
These cookies don't brown when done, so rely on timing and texture rather than color
Make icing thick enough to coat cookies but thin enough to dip easily
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
Cookies can be made 1 day ahead, store unglazed and add icing before serving
Serve at room temperature for best texture and flavor
Common Mistakes
Don't overbake as cookies won't brown and can become dry
Ensure icing is proper consistency to avoid too-thick or too-thin coating
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Creates richer flavor and slightly different texture
Full guide →Gluten-Free Swaps
Use 1:1 baking flour for best results
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make these in a regular oven instead of air fryer?
Yes, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes in a conventional oven, watching for doneness since they won't brown.
What if my dough is too sticky to work with?
Add flour one tablespoon at a time until dough is manageable but not dry.
How long do these cookies keep fresh?
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months.