Mexican Sugar Cookies

1. In a medium bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, anise seeds, 1/4 teaspoon of the cinnamon, and the salt; set aside. In a large bowl, beat lard with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Gradually add the 1 cup granulated sugar, beating until fluffy. Beat in egg and 2 tablespoons of the milk until combined. Alternately add flour mixture and brandy, beating well after each addition.

2. Transfer one-fourth of the dough to a small bowl; stir in a few drops yellow food coloring. Cover and chill both doughs about 1 hour or until easy to handle.

3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. On a lightly floured surface, roll plain dough until 1/4 inch thick. Using a 2 1/2-inch snowflake- or flower-shape cookie cutter, cut out dough. Place 1 inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Roll yellow dough until 1/4 inch thick. Using a 1 1/2-inch star-shape cookie cutter, cut out dough. Place yellow stars on top of snowflakes or flowers. Brush cookies with the remaining 2 tablespoons milk. In a small bowl, stir together the 1/3 cup granulated sugar and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; sprinkle over cookies.

4. Bake about 14 minutes or until edges are light brown. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool. Makes about 24 cookies