Chewy Licorice Cookie Recipe
Bold, nostalgic, and wonderfully unexpected, these Chewy Licorice Cookies bring a unique twist to classic baking. With a soft center, crisp edges, and a deep molasses-like sweetness enhanced by anise, these cookies offer a flavor profile that stands out effortlessly. Crafted with the precision of an expert chef, this recipe is designed to elevate your baking repertoire with both finesse and creativity. If you’re ready to surprise your guests with something memorable, this is the treat that delivers.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 teaspoons anise extract
- 1 cup chopped soft black licorice candy
Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg, molasses, and anise extract until smooth.
Combine and Fold
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Fold in the chopped licorice until evenly distributed.
Shape and Bake
Scoop dough into balls and place on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.
Cook Time
10 to 12 minutes
Servings
Makes approximately 18 cookies
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 140
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 95mg
Storage Instructions
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before serving. Keeping a slice of bread in the container helps maintain chewiness.
Suggestions
- Add a light drizzle of melted white chocolate for a sweet contrast.
- Substitute anise extract with fennel extract for a milder flavor.
- Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a spiced variation.
- Serve warm with tea or coffee to highlight the aromatic notes.
Seasonal Relevance
These cookies shine particularly during fall and winter, where deeper, warming flavors complement holiday gatherings and cozy evenings. Their nostalgic spice also makes them a wonderful addition to seasonal cookie platters.
Conclusion
Chewy, aromatic, and delightfully distinctive, this licorice cookie recipe showcases how simple ingredients can create remarkable flavors with the right culinary technique. As an expert chef, I crafted this recipe to deliver both comfort and sophistication perfect for bakers who want to explore beyond the ordinary. These cookies are sure to become a conversation-worthy favorite.
Chewy Licorice Cookie Recipe
18 cookies
servings15
minutes10
minutes2520
kcal25
minutesThese Chewy Licorice Cookies deliver a unique blend of nostalgic flavor, soft centers, and crisp edges. Enhanced with molasses and aromatic anise, they offer a delightful twist on classic cookies. Perfect for bakers seeking a cookie that surprises, comforts, and stands out with every bite.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup molasses
2 teaspoons anise extract
1 cup chopped soft black licorice candy
Directions
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg, molasses, and anise extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually combine wet and dry mixtures.
- Fold in chopped licorice pieces.
- Roll dough into balls and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set and centers remain chewy.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate for contrast.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
- Store with a slice of bread to maintain chewiness.
FAQs
Q1. Can I replace black licorice with red licorice?
Yes, though the flavor will be sweeter and fruitier, resulting in a very different but still enjoyable cookie.
Q2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. Chill the dough for up to 48 hours, which also enhances flavor and texture.
Q3. How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking or add an extra tablespoon of flour to stabilize it.
