Salty Black Licorice Brownie Cookies

My wife doesn’t like black licorice but she really liked these. They are sophisticated and rich. Use less or more ground anise, according to your taste.

Recipe By:

Food52.com

Ingredients:

7 ounces 60% dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons water
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 large eggs, room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons black cocoa powder (or Dutch-processed cocoa powder)
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons licorice root powder (available in specialty spice stores)
1-2 teaspoons ground anise
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus flaky salt for sprinkling on top)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375° F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2. Place chocolate, water, and vanilla extract in a medium heat-proof bowl. Set aside.

3. Place butter in a small pot over medium heat and begin melting. Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until butter begins to brown and smell nutty. Immediately pour over chocolate mixture and stir until completely melted. Set aside.

4. Place eggs and both sugars in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Whip on high speed for 7 minutes until eggs are pale and ribbony. Meanwhile, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, licorice root power, anise, and salt. Set aside.

5. Reduce mixer speed to low and slowly add melted chocolate mixture. Once combined, add dry ingredients and mix until just incorporated.

6. Using a large #20 cookie scoop (or 3 rounded tablespoons), portion batter onto prepared trays leaving two inches between each. Sprinkle tops with flaky salt and bake until puffed and crackly, about 11 minutes. Remove from oven, give the tray a good smack against the counter, and let cool for at least 20 minutes.