Description
Italian Christmas Cookies are a soft, cake-like treat topped with a simple glaze and festive sprinkles. These classic cookies are perfect for bringing a touch of holiday magic to your dessert table. Their light almond flavor makes them irresistible, and they’re a tradition worth sharing with family and friends during the Christmas season. Try this easy recipe today and start a new holiday baking tradition!
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla and almond extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon) and place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, then add sprinkles while the glaze is still wet.
- Let the glaze set before serving or storing.
Notes
- For an even more festive touch, add different colors of sprinkles or even edible glitter!
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the milk slightly to get the right consistency.
- Want to make these ahead? You can freeze the unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Just thaw, glaze, and decorate before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: ITALIAN
Keywords: Italian Christmas cookies, holiday cookies, almond cookies, Christmas baking, Italian cookies