Iced Italian Knot Cookies

1 . Stage

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

2 . Stage

Mix flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl.

3 . Stage

Combine butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; beat until smooth and creamy. Change to the dough hook and gradually mix in flour mixture. Add warm water and mix until a smooth dough forms.

4 . Stage

Roll dough into 1 1/2-inch balls. Roll each ball out to a 4-inch long worm. Bring one end over the other, then underneath and through the middle, like a knot. Place 16 cookies on a baking sheet, four rows of four.

5 . Stage

Bake in the preheated oven until edges are golden, 13 to 15 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet for 1 minute before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

6 . Stage

Repeat to bake remaining 2 batches of cookies.

7 . Stage

Meanwhile, mix powdered sugar, anise extract, and salt together in a bowl. Mix in water, a little at a time, until desired consistency.

8 . Stage

Dip cooled cookies upside down into the icing, then turn over onto waxed paper. Sprinkle with candy sprinkles.