Instructions: In a large saucepan combine sugar, corn syrup, milk, and shortening. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat and cool about 15 minutes. Stir in anise extract, baking powder, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Stir in the flour till well mixed. Cover and chill (* see note) about 2 hours or until easy to handle. Divide dough into 24 equal parts. On a surface dusted lightly with sifted powdered sugar, roll each part of the dough into a 1/4" thick rope. Cut into pieces about 3/8" long. Place 1" apart on baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 10 - 12 minutes or until done. Immediately remove and cool on paper towels.

Makes 8 cups of cookies.

NOTES:
*See note #1 - I dont use anise. Still very good! - Janet

*See note #2 - I roll into 1/4" thick ropes and freeze between layers of waxed paper over night, then I cut and bake. - Janet

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