Sienese spiced cookies with walnuts, candied fruits, and anise are a medieval treat. These traditional mediterranean biscuits are a family holiday baking tradition.
Preheat your oven to 340°F (170°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium-low until sugar fully dissolves and the syrup just reaches a gentle simmer. Do not boil.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ground anise, cinnamon, and coriander. Stir in the chopped walnuts and candied fruits for even distribution.
Pour the warm sugar syrup over the dry ingredients. Mix quickly using a sturdy spatula until a sticky, stiff dough forms. If needed, use your hands to bring it together while it's still warm.
With lightly floured hands, shape the dough into walnut-sized balls (about 2 tbsp each), flattening slightly. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
Bake for 18–22 minutes on the center rack until the cookies are set but remain pale with slightly cracked tops. Do not overbake; cookies should be chewy in the center.
Remove from oven and cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling completely before serving.