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italian christmas cookies 2026 05 02 191513 683x1024 1

Italian Christmas Cookies

Delightful and festive cookies that bring joy to any holiday gathering with their sweet and buttery flavor.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Dough Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure and texture.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetness complementing the buttery flavor.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) Brings richness and tenderness.
  • 2 large eggs Bind the ingredients and contribute to texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract Adds a unique Italian flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Ensures cookies rise beautifully.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
Glaze and Decoration
  • 1 cup powdered sugar For the sweet glaze.
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk Adjust for glaze consistency.
  • Sprinkles Adds festive color.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Making the Dough
  1. In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
Baking
  1. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and shape them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
  2. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Glazing
  1. While the cookies cool, make the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
  2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and top with colorful sprinkles.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them separated by parchment paper. For extra flavor, consider adding citrus zest to the dough. If you like chewy cookies, slightly underbake them.