As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen fills with the irresistible scent of baking, transporting me back to cherished family gatherings. One of my absolute favorites is these Easy and Festive Italian Christmas Cookies. With their soft, sweet texture and playful, vibrant sprinkles, they perfectly capture the essence of festive cheer.
What I love most about these cookies is their simplicity; they come together effortlessly, allowing you more time to savor those special moments with loved ones. They are easily customizable, welcoming flavorful twists like almond, vanilla, or even a hint of anise extract. Whether you’re baking for a cookie tray, gifting a batch, or indulging during cozy family nights, these cookies are versatile enough to delight everyone at the table.
Let’s dive in and discover how to make these deliciously easy Italian Christmas Cookies, sure to become a beloved tradition in your home!
Why are Italian Christmas Cookies a must-try?
Simplicity: This recipe comes together with just a few staples, making holiday baking a breeze.
Customization: With options like almond, vanilla, or anise extract, you can tailor these cookies to suit any palate.
Festive Appeal: Adorned with colorful sprinkles and a glossy glaze, they’re perfect for gifting or cookie trays.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These cookies stay fresh for up to a week and can even be frozen, saving you time during the busy holiday season!
Crowd-Pleasing Taste: Their tender, slightly chewy texture will have everyone coming back for more, making them a favorite at any gathering!
Italian Christmas Cookies Ingredients
These delightful cookies come together quickly and easily!
For the Dough
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with browning; can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Eggs – Binds the dough and contributes to the cookie’s structure; large eggs work best for consistency.
- Almond Extract – Enriches the flavor profile; feel free to swap for vanilla or anise extract for custom variations.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; spoon into measuring cup instead of scooping to prevent excess.
- Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise; check freshness for best results.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Used for the glaze, giving sweetness and a smooth finish; adjust milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Milk – Helps create the frosting; start with 2 tablespoons and add more until the right thickness is reached.
Let’s gather these ingredients and bring the festive spirit into our kitchens with these wonderful Italian Christmas Cookies!
How to Make Italian Christmas Cookies
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Prepare Dough: In a bowl, mix flour and baking powder; set aside. In another bowl, beat the butter until fluffy. Gradually add sugar and eggs, then incorporate the almond extract for a rich flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender and soft.
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Chill Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to shape.
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Shape Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are 1 inch apart.
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Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes until they are set, but don’t overbake! The edges should be lightly golden.
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Make Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze, adding almond extract to enhance the flavor profile.
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Glaze Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, dip each one into the glaze and sprinkle with festive decorations. Place them on a rack to allow the glaze to set before serving.
Optional: Add a touch of citrus zest to the glaze for an extra festive flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Italian Christmas Cookies
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Mix Gently: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until everything is combined for a tender bite.
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Flour Measurement: For best results, spoon the flour into the measuring cup rather than scooping, as this prevents excess and ensures proper texture in your Italian Christmas Cookies.
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Chill Properly: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough allows the flavors to develop while making the dough easier to shape, resulting in perfectly soft cookies.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking; even a minute too long can turn them from soft and chewy to dry and crumbly.
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Glaze Timing: Allow your cookies to cool completely before glazing. This guarantees a beautiful finish, and remember to add sprinkles before the glaze sets to ensure they stick!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness.
Fridge: If preferred, you can refrigerate the cookies, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container, layered with wax paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies at room temperature. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their fresh-baked goodness.
Italian Christmas Cookies Variations
These delightful treats are waiting for your personal touch—let your creativity shine through!
- Vanilla Extract: Swap out almond for vanilla for a sweeter, classic cookie flavor that everyone will adore.
- Anise Extract: For a unique twist, use anise extract to give the cookies a distinctive, aromatic taste reminiscent of holiday traditions.
- Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a burst of fresh, fruity brightness that dances on your palate.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips for an unexpected rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze.
- Nut Variations: Incorporate finely chopped pistachios or hazelnuts for added crunch and a richer nutty profile; they also look stunning as a topping.
- Dried Fruit: Mix in chopped dried cherries or cranberries to give a sweet and tart contrast that enhances your cookie game!
- Spiced Options: Sprinkle in a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor twist, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions; they’ll still come out deliciously soft!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your signature cookie!
What to Serve with Italian Christmas Cookies?
Elevate your festive gatherings with delightful accompaniments that beautifully complement these charming cookies.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, creamy cup of hot chocolate provides a comforting contrast to the soft sweetness of the cookies, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Its juicy, sweet-tart flavors balance the cookies’ sweetness, creating a delightful harmony of textures and taste. This combination is a festive showstopper.
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Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee perfectly complement the nutty undertones of almond, making every bite feel indulgent and comforting.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider offers a fragrant, festive beverage option that pairs wonderfully with the cookies’ sweetness, adding seasonal spice to your gatherings.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Top a warm cookie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
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Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness, cutting through the sweetness while providing a colorful, vibrant presentation to your dessert table.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can also balance the sweetness of the cookies, adding a savory twist to your festive dessert spread.
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Holiday Punch: A sparkling holiday punch with citrus notes and festive flavors can brighten your table and invigorate guests, making every bite of cookie even more enjoyable.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy and Festive Italian Christmas Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, you can bake and frost the cookies up to 3 days ahead of time; just store them in an airtight container with wax paper in between layers to keep them fresh and prevent the glaze from sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring them to room temperature, and you’ll have a delightful treat that tastes just as delicious as if they were freshly made!
Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ripeness of ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, make sure your butter is at room temperature; this helps create a fluffy texture when beaten. Eggs should also be at room temperature for uniform mixing. Fresh baking powder is essential, so check the expiration date before use.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
You’ll want to store your Italian Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature where they can stay fresh for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, you can place a slice of bread in the container as it helps to maintain moisture. If you have any frosted cookies, it’s best to refrigerate them to keep the glaze intact, but remember to bring them to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze Italian Christmas Cookies?
Yes, you definitely can! To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, layering with wax paper to avoid sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If your cookies spread excessively, it may be a sign that your butter was too warm when mixed or that you didn’t chill the dough long enough. Always ensure to chill the dough for at least an hour. Additionally, consider adding a little more flour if the dough seems too soft.
Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
The base recipe includes common allergens like eggs and wheat. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, be sure to use substitutions like egg replacers and gluten-free flour blends. You can also easily replace almond extract with vanilla to accommodate nut allergies. Always check labels for cross-contamination!
How long can I make these cookies ahead of time?
These Italian Christmas Cookies are make-ahead friendly! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, baked cookies can be made 1 week in advance and stored in an airtight container, or frozen as described earlier for up to 3 months. Enjoy the convenience of preparing your holiday treats in advance!
Deliciously Soft Italian Christmas Cookies for Festive Gifting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix flour and baking powder; set aside. In another bowl, beat the butter until fluffy. Gradually add sugar and eggs, then incorporate the almond extract.
- Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes until they are set, but don’t overbake!
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze, adding almond extract.
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, dip each one into the glaze and sprinkle with festive decorations.