Perník

I love a good spice cake, one with a lot of flavor. This version from The Czech Cookbook is just that, delicious with a unique flavor from the star anise and fennel. The cocoa adds a great depth of flavor without making it a chocolate cake.

1 1/2 c. flour
1 c. sugar
2 tsp. baking powder
3 Tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. allspice
2 1/2 star anise
1 tsp. fennel seeds
2 eggs
1 stick butter, melted
1 c. milk

Powdered Sugar

In a high powered blender combine the cinnamon, allspice, anise stars, and fennel seeds. Blend to grind slightly, it won't turn them to powder with that small of an amount, it will just break them up a lot. Add the sugar, baking powder, and cocoa. Blend until fine. 

Pre-heat oven to 350

Combine the flour, sugar and spice mixture, eggs, melted butter, and milk. 

Spray a 9x13 inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter and flour. Pour the batter in to the prepared pan. 

Bake for