Ingredients
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3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting work surfaces)
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1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temp
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1 teaspoon gray salt
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2/3 cup crystal sugar (plus more to roll logs in)
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1/3 cup packed brown sugar
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5 large eggs
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1 cup unblanched whole almonds, toasted
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6 tablespoons anise seeds
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
- In the bowl of a kitchen aid fitted with paddle attachment, cream together the butter and crystal sugar until light and fluffy. Add brown sugar while mixing.
- Add the eggs, four mixture and anise seeds. Beat on low just until the dough begins to come together.
- Add the almonds and mix just until distributed.
- Do not overwork.
- On a floured board, shape the dough into a log, flatten, put on a baking sheet and chill for 2 hours to allow the dough to relax.
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions on a lightly foured work surface.
- Using your hands, roll each portion into a log about 3 inches in diameter.
- Top generously with crystal sugar.
- Place the logs pm the prepared baking sheet and press down lightly to flatten slightly. Logs should be several inches apart.
- Bake until firm and light brown, about 1 hour or more.
- When poked with a finger, the dough should feel firm to the touch and not collapse or cave inches
- Remove from the oven.
- Let the logs cool completely.