Italian Christmas Cookies – Sweet, and perfect for the holidays

Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful way to add a little sweetness to your holiday season! These soft, cake-like cookies are topped with a simple glaze and colorful sprinkles, making them as fun to decorate as they are to eat. They’re a classic, handed-down recipe that brings family together around the kitchen—perfect for your next holiday gathering! I promised you tradition, and here’s proof: these cookies are loved by generations, and it’s time for you to enjoy them too!

Ingredients

For the cookies:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sprinkles for decorating

How to Make Italian Christmas Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs and extracts: Mix in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Shape cookies: Roll tablespoons of dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden on the bottoms.
8. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
9. Glaze and decorate: Dip each cooled cookie into the glaze and top with sprinkles.

Details And Nutritional Information

Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: About 36 cookies

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie (based on 36 servings)
Calories: 90
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 35mg
Fat: 3.5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Helpful Tips

• Don’t skip the almond extract! It adds a signature flavor that makes these cookies taste like tradition.
• Let the cookies cool completely before glazing to ensure the glaze sets nicely.
• Storage tip: If you’re making these ahead, store them in an airtight container and wait to glaze until the day of serving.

Substitutions & Variations

• Almond allergy? You can swap the almond extract for more vanilla extract, though it will change the flavor slightly.
• Want a citrus twist? Try adding a bit of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright holiday flavor.
• Gluten-free option: You can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies before glazing. When ready to serve, thaw them completely and then glaze.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.

Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?

Nope! Once glazed, they’ll keep at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Storage Instructions

Store your Italian Christmas Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If freezing, store the unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Glaze the cookies once they’ve thawed.

FAQs

Can I use different sprinkles?

Yes! Feel free to get creative with festive sprinkles, nonpareils, or even edible glitter for extra holiday cheer.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk slightly, adding just a teaspoon until it reaches your desired consistency.

These Italian Christmas Cookies are delicious and bring a taste of tradition to your holiday table. Whether baking for family or gifting to friends, these cookies will be a hit! Enjoy baking and happy holidays!