Begin by creaming together 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add in 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of anise extract, mixing until well combined.

Gradually mix in 3 cups of all-purpose flour until fully incorporated into the mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes.

While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by whisking 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of milk until smooth.

Dip the tops of the cooled cookies in the glaze and sprinkle with festive sprinkles while still wet.