The secret to this popular Italian cookie is the double baking process.
Makes 3 dozen
Pre-heat oven to 350. Lightly spray oil onto a large cookie sheet. Combine the flour, baking powder, and zest. Set aside. Cream the butter and sugar in a mixer. With the mixer running, add 1 egg at a time. Add the flour mixture and blend well. Add the anise extract and walnuts and blend well. Place the dough on a floured board and form 2 12 in. logs. Place on the cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Allow to cool 15 minutes. Reduce the oven to 300. Cut thelogs into 1/2 slices, cutting diagonally. Place on cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes, turning once. Cool. Store in an airtight container.