nonstick cooking spray
4 T. butter
3/4 c. sugar
2 eggs
1/2 t. vanilla, almond, lemon or anise extract
2 1/4 c. flour
2 t. baking powder
pinch of salt
optional ingredients:
1 c. nuts
1/2 c. dried fruit
3/4 c. chocolate chips
citrus zest or fennel seeds
Preheat oven to 375 F. Line two baking sheets with foil and coat with nonstick spray. Cream butter and sugar; beat in eggs and extract. Combine dry ingredients and add to butter mixture. Divide dough in half and form into two 2-inch-wide logs. Place on baking sheets. Bake until golden and cracking on top, about 30 minutes.
Reduce heat to 250 F. Remove loaves from oven and wait until just cool enough to handle. Cut diagonally with a serrated knife into 1/2" slices. Lay slices flat on baking sheets and return to oven for another 15-20 minutes, turning over once. Cool on racks. Serve with wine or coffee.
