Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe

Bring the festive spirit to your kitchen with these delightful Italian Christmas Cookies. Light, fluffy, and flavored with vanilla and almond, these cookies are perfect for celebrating the holiday season. Topped with a sweet almond glaze and holiday sprinkles, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or preparing edible gifts, this recipe is a must-have for your Christmas repertoire.

What Are Italian Christmas Cookies?

Italian Christmas Cookies are soft, pillowy treats made with simple ingredients like butter, eggs, and flour, then flavored with almond and vanilla extracts. These cookies are topped with a smooth, sweet glaze and festive sprinkles, making them a colorful addition to any holiday dessert table. Their tender texture and lightly sweetened taste make them a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Customizable: Change the sprinkles to fit any holiday or occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love decorating these cookies with festive sprinkles.
• Gift-Worthy: Pack them in a decorative tin for a thoughtful holiday gift.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These cookies store well, allowing you to prepare them in advance.

Ingredients

Cookies

• 2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract

Glaze

• 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
• 3–4 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp almond extract
• Holiday sprinkles for decoration

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Add the vanilla and almond extracts, mixing well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Shaping the Cookies

1. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
2. Slightly flatten each ball with your fingers or the back of a spoon.

Baking the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain their soft texture.
2. Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.

Glazing and Decorating

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth.
2. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, letting any excess drip off.
3. Immediately sprinkle the tops with holiday sprinkles before the glaze sets.
4. Allow the glaze to harden completely before storing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
• Arrange them on a festive platter as part of your holiday dessert spread.
• Pack them in decorative tins for gifting to friends, neighbors, or coworkers.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent the glaze from sticking.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
• Alternatively, freeze fully decorated cookies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container.

Recipe Variations

• Citrus Twist: Substitute almond extract with lemon or orange extract for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
• Vegan Option: Replace butter with plant-based butter and use a flaxseed egg substitute.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles easily, making it great for large gatherings or gifting.

What can I use instead of almond extract?
You can substitute almond extract with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a milder flavor.

Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season with loved ones. Their soft texture, festive glaze, and bright sprinkles make them a standout treat. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying them with family, these cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer. Try them out and share your creations with friends and family!

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