Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly encapsulates the festive spirit of the holiday season. Soft, tender, and lightly sweetened, these cookies are coated with a simple glaze and colorful sprinkles, making them as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply craving a classic holiday dessert, these cookies are sure to become a new tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive and Beautiful: The glaze and sprinkles make these cookies a stunning addition to any holiday table.
Soft and Tender Texture: These cookies melt in your mouth, thanks to their fluffy and light consistency.
Customizable: You can experiment with different extracts like almond, anise, or vanilla to suit your taste.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are beginner-friendly.
Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields a generous batch, ideal for gift-giving or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Butter
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla or almond extract (optional: anise extract)
Powdered sugar
Milk
Sprinkles

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in your choice of extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool.
To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Dip each cooled cookie into the glaze, then top with sprinkles.
Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 30 cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Flavor Variations: Substitute almond or anise extract for the vanilla to create a more traditional flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for a celiac-friendly version.
Decorations: Try using gold or silver sprinkles for an elegant touch or red and green sprinkles for a more festive look.
Shape Options: Instead of rolling the dough into balls, shape it into crescents or twists for a unique presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration: You can refrigerate the cookies to extend their shelf life to 7-10 days.
Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure that the dough is chilled before baking, and avoid overmixing the ingredients.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What’s the best way to achieve a smooth glaze?

Use a whisk to mix the powdered sugar and milk thoroughly, ensuring there are no lumps.

Can I use non-dairy milk for the glaze?

Yes, almond, soy, or oat milk work well as substitutes.

How do I make these cookies nut-free?

Opt for vanilla extract instead of almond extract to avoid nuts entirely.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients, but consider baking in batches to ensure even cooking.

Why are my cookies dry?

Overbaking can lead to dryness. Keep a close eye on the cookies and remove them as soon as the bottoms are lightly golden.

Can I add food coloring to the glaze?

Yes, a drop or two of food coloring can add a festive touch to the glaze.

Do these cookies pair well with beverages?

They’re perfect with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

What other toppings can I use besides sprinkles?

Try crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or edible glitter for variety.

Conclusion

Italian Christmas Cookies are a must-have holiday treat that brings joy to the season. With their soft texture, customizable flavors, and festive decorations, these cookies are perfect for any celebration. Easy to make and even easier to love, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Gather your ingredients and start a new family tradition with these irresistible cookies!