Springerle Cookie

INGREDIENTS:

* 4 eggs
* 4 cups confectioners' sugar
* 2 teaspoons lemon zest
* 4 1/2 cups cake flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 4 drops anise oil
*** I like to use cracked anise seeds.

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until very light and fluffy. Stir in the anise oil and lemon zest. Add the flour and baking powder; mix until well blended. Cover and chill dough for 3 to 4 hours.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 to 1/8 inch thickness. Use a springerle rolling pin or board to make the designs. Cut into 1 1/2 inch rectangles, place onto a cookie sheet, and let them sit out overnight, uncovered, in a cool dry place.
3. The next morning, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bake the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not let the cookies brown. Allow cookies to cool, and store in an airtight tin for 1 week to blend the flavors.