What are anise cookies?
Anise cookies are a type of cookie flavored with anise extract, which comes from the anise seed. They have a distinct licorice taste and are popular in many parts of the world, especially Mediterranean and Latin American cuisines. Some common varieties of anise cookies include:
- Anisette cookies – Light and crispy anise-flavored cookies
- Bizcochos de anís – Crisp anise-flavored cookies from Spain
- Pizzelle – Thin, crunchy Italian waffle cookies flavored with anise
- Springerle – Traditional German anise-flavored cookies stamped with images
- Koulourakia – Greek butter cookies flavored with anise
The anise flavor comes from the essential oil of the anise seed, which contains anethole. This gives the cookies their distinctive licorice taste. Beyond flavoring, anise extract also serves as a digestive aid in cookies.
Nutrition profile of anise cookies
The nutrition profile of anise cookies can vary considerably depending on the specific recipe. However, most anise cookies are relatively low in calories and fat compared to other cookie varieties.
Here is the general nutrition information for a 1-ounce (30g) serving of basic anise cookies made with all-purpose flour, butter, eggs, anise extract, and sugar:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 65mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Protein | 1g |
As you can see, a 1-ounce serving provides 120 calories, 4g of fat (2g saturated), 65mg sodium, 18g carbs, and minimal protein. There are 8g of sugar per serving, coming from the added granulated sugar.
Anise cookies are low in fiber since they lack whole grains. Fiber content can be increased by substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Beneficial nutrients
Anise cookies can provide small amounts of certain vitamins and minerals:
- Iron – Anise cookies made with flour contain some iron, which helps transport oxygen in the blood.
- Calcium – Dairy ingredients like butter provide calcium for strong bones.
- Potassium – Needed for fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function.
However, the quantities of these nutrients are relatively low compared to other sources. Anise cookies are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals in the diet.
Potential health benefits
Here are some of the potential benefits that may be associated with eating anise cookies in moderation:
Digestive aid
Anise contains compounds like anethole that may help relax gastrointestinal muscles and act as a digestive aid. The aroma of anise may also trigger increased saliva production. This can support digestion.
Some studies have found anise may help reduce stomach cramping, bloating, and discomfort when consumed after meals. The exact mechanism is unclear but may be related to its muscle-relaxing effects.
Respiratory support
Anise contains antioxidants like linalool that may help thin mucus secretions in the lungs and loosen phlegm. This can potentially aid respiratory function and make breathing easier.
Anise also has antimicrobial effects that may help fight infection-causing germs in the sinuses and respiratory tract. This combination of mucus-thinning and antimicrobial properties may provide relief for some respiratory ailments when anise is consumed regularly.
Oral health
Chewing on anise cookies increases saliva production, which can support oral hygiene. The antiseptic and antimicrobial compounds in anise may also inhibit cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.
Some early research has found that anise extract may reduce plaque formation and help prevent tooth decay and gingivitis when used as a mouth rinse. More studies are needed to confirm these potential oral health benefits.
Antioxidant content
Anise contains antioxidants like linalool, estragole, and anethole. These compounds help neutralize free radicals that can damage cells in the body.
While the antioxidant content of anise cookies is relatively low compared to fruits and vegetables, the antioxidants may provide some protective benefits.
Bone health
The calcium content in anise cookies may help support bone mineral density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. However, the amount of calcium obtained from anise cookies is minimal compared to milk, yogurt, and other sources.
Potential health risks
Here are some potential downsides and risks associated with eating anise cookies:
Blood sugar spikes
Anise cookies made with refined flour and sugar can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels. This is a concern for people with diabetes or prediabetes.
Replacing some all-purpose flour with whole grain flour can help mitigate blood sugar spikes. Limiting portion sizes is also important.
Allergic reactions
Anise seeds and anise extract are common allergens. People with an anise allergy may experience symptoms like hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing after consuming anise cookies.
Anise allergy is closely related to fennel allergy, since both plants belong to the same family. People with anise allergy should avoid anise cookies and other anise-flavored foods.
Medication interactions
The compounds in anise may interact with certain medications metabolized by the liver. Anise may inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in drug metabolism.
People taking medications affected by P450 inhibitors like antifungals, calcium channel blockers, and antidepressants should exercise caution with anise cookies. Consult your doctor for guidance.
Toxicity at high doses
Anise contains a compound called anethole which may be toxic in excessive quantities. Side effects linked to anethole toxicity include seizure, vomiting, electrolyte imbalance, and liver damage.
However, the amount of anethole obtained from eating normal amounts of anise cookies is very low and not a health risk. Only extremely high, inadvisable doses of anise extract or oil would contain toxic levels of anethole.
Who should avoid or limit anise cookies?
Here are some groups of people who may want to avoid or limit consumption of anise cookies:
- People with anise allergies or fennel allergies
- People taking certain medications that undergo P450 metabolism
- People with hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer or ovarian cancer (anise may have weak estrogenic effects)
- Children under 2 years old (risk of choking on hard cookies)
- People with diabetes or blood sugar regulation issues
- People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or digestive issues that may be exacerbated by anise
Pregnant and breastfeeding women can eat anise cookies in moderation as part of a balanced diet, though very high intakes of anise may have hormonal effects. Those with health conditions should consult their doctor before adding anise cookies to their diet.
The bottom line
When enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, anise cookies are unlikely to pose significant health risks for most people. They provide a tasty way to get a modest amount of nutrients like iron and calcium.
Potential benefits of anise cookies may include digestive aid, respiratory support, oral health, antioxidant content, and bone support. However, these benefits have not been conclusively proven and more research is needed.
To maximize potential upsides while minimizing risks, consume anise cookies in moderate portions and balance them out with more nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid overdoing portions and frequency.
As with any food, those with sensitivities or allergies to anise should avoid anise cookies entirely. The rest of us can enjoy an occasional anise cookie as a licorice-flavored treat.