Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt and set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter, crystal sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, flour mixture, and aniseeds. Beat on low just until the dough begins to come together. Add the almonds and mix just until distributed. Do not overwork. On a floured board, shape the dough into a ball, flatten, put in a bowl, and chill for 2 hours to allow the dough to relax.

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions on a lightly floured work surface. Using your hands, roll each portion into a log about 3 inches in diameter. Roll the logs in crystal sugar to coat well. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet and press down lightly to flatten slightly. Logs should be several inches apart.

Bake until firm and light brown, about 1 hour. When poked with a finger, the dough should feel firm to the touch and not collapse or cave in. Remove from the oven, then lower the oven temperature to 300 F.

Let the logs cool completely. Carefully move them, still on the parchment, to a cutting board, then peel off the parchment. Cut the logs with a sharp serrated knife into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Lay the slices down on a baking sheet and return to the oven. Bake until toasted to a golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes. Turn the cookies during toasting, as needed, to brown evenly on both sides. Let cool completely, then store in an airtight container.

Variation : Try substituting 1/2 cup of cacao nibs for 1/2 a cup of almonds. They'll add a subtle chocolate flavor.