1/2 c. butter
1 c. sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
1 3/4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 tsp. anise seed
1/3 c. ground nuts (optional)

Cream butter; add sugar and beat until light and smooth. Add egg and vanilla; mix well. Sift together flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add dry ingredients and anise seed to creamed mixture, beating hard after each addition. Shape dough into a roll. Wrap in waxed paper and chill. Cut into thin slices. Place on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake in 400 degree oven 8 minutes or until golden brown.