Easy Family Recipes & Tips | Italian Christmas Cookies
A classic soft and cakey Christmas Italian cookie with vanilla, almond, and a festive sugary glaze.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/4 cup milk
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Glaze:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla or almond extract
Festive sprinkles
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk until a soft dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll into smooth balls.
7. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until cookies are set but not browned.
8. Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and extract until smooth.
9. Dip warm cookies into the glaze and add sprinkles immediately.
10. Let cookies dry on a rack until the glaze is fully set.
Notes
For a more traditional flavor, substitute anise extract. These cookies stay soft for days and freeze beautifully.