Description
These soft and fluffy Italian Christmas cookies are a staple during the holiday season. With a hint of anise or vanilla flavor, a sweet glaze, and colorful sprinkles, they bring festive cheer to any dessert table. Easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (or anise extract for traditional flavor)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3–4 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (or anise extract)
- Colored sprinkles, for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla (or anise extract) and milk until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla (or anise extract) until smooth.
- Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
- Decorate:
- Dip the tops of each cooled cookie into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off.
- Place the cookies back on the wire rack and immediately decorate with sprinkles before the glaze sets.
- Set and Serve:
- Allow the glaze to set completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- If you prefer, you can use lemon or almond extract instead of anise or vanilla for a different flavor profile.