Peppernuts...

3/4 cup sugar
2/3 cup dark corn syrup
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup shortening
1 tsp. anise extract
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground cardamom
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
Sifted powdered sugar

In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, milk, and shortening. Bring to boiling. Remove from heat and cool about 15 minutes. Stir in anise extract, baking powder, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Stir in the flour until well mixed. Cover and chill about two hours or until easy to handle.

Divide dough into 24 equal parts. On a surface dusted lightly with powdered sugar, roll each part of the dough into a 1/4-inch-thick rope. Cut into pieces about 3/4-inch long. Place 1 inch apart on a greased cookie sheet.

Bake in a 375 degree oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until done. Immediately remove and cool on paper towels. Makes 8 cups of cookies.