Meg's Anise Biscotti

INGREDIENTS
2 cups all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 stick unsalted butter (at room temperature)
2 large eggs
2 tsp anise flavoring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon aniseeds

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs, beating after the addition of each. Add the dry ingredients, alternating with the anise flavoring. Add the vanilla and mix well, then fold in the aniseeds.

Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each under your palms to make a log, about 12-inches in length and two inches in diameter (you'll want to flour your hands well - the dough is sticky). Place the logs on your baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Bake for 30 minutes and then remove from the oven and let cool.

Reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees.

Once the biscotti logs have cooled, transfer them to a cutting board and using a serrated knife, cut them into 3/4 inch think slices. Spread the cookies on the baking sheet, on their sides, and bake. After 15 minutes, flip them over for another 15 minutes. Then remove and allow to cool.

Yield: Approximately 2 1/2 dozen