Anise Cookies Ii

Directions

1. 1
   Beat egg whites with water until stiff.
2. 2
   In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with sugar, salt, and vanilla until creamy. Fold egg whites into yolks using a wire whisk. Sift flour and anise into the bowl, and gently stir together with the whisk. Mix will look lumpy.
3. 3
   Put dough into decorating bag with round large tip, and press 1 inch rounds onto sheet. Let cookies sit out overnight at room temperature to dry.
4. 4
   The next day, cover cookies with a sheet of parchment paper, and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Cookies are done when bottom is light brown, but tops are still almost white. Cool.
5. 5
   Store in container for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool place to mellow and to turn soft. You can add a slice of bread or a piece of apple to help soften the cookies.