Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe

Introduction

As the holiday season approaches, my thoughts often turn to cherished traditions and the delightful treats that accompany them. One of our family favorites is Italian Christmas Cookies, a recipe passed down through generations. These cookies are not only a festive treat but also a symbol of the joy and togetherness that the holidays bring. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness, with a light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. The vibrant glaze and colorful sprinkles add a cheerful touch that brightens any holiday gathering. My family eagerly anticipates these cookies each year, and I love watching the kids decorate them with sprinkles, turning baking into a fun and creative family activity. Let me share this beloved recipe with you, so you can create your own sweet holiday memories.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• Sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

1. Cream Butter and Sugar:

• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

1. Add Eggs and Extracts:

• Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts until well combined.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies light.

1. Shape and Bake:

• Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten each ball with the palm of your hand. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Glaze and Decorate:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and creamy. Dip the top of each cookie into the glaze, then decorate with sprinkles while the glaze is still wet. Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 100 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

How to Serve

• Presentation: Arrange the decorated cookies on a festive platter for an eye-catching display.
• Storage: Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Pairing: Serve alongside a warm cup of cocoa, coffee, or tea for a delightful holiday treat.
• Gifting: Package them in decorative bags or boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Sharing: Bring them to holiday gatherings or parties to spread the festive spirit.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
2. Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to shape, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling.
3. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to substitute almond extract with lemon or orange extract for a citrus twist.
5. Use Food Coloring: Add a few drops of food coloring to the glaze for a fun and festive look.

Recipe Variations

• Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of glaze, melt chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Nutty Touch: Fold in chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for added crunch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spicy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Cookie Tray: Include these cookies on a tray with other holiday treats like gingerbread men and sugar cookies.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches for a fun dessert.
• Dessert Table: Feature them on a dessert table at holiday parties, alongside festive cakes and pies.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the unglazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Glaze and decorate after thawing.
• Thawing: Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature before glazing.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

• Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

1. What can I use instead of almond extract?

• You can substitute with additional vanilla extract or use a different nut extract.

1. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

• The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers should look slightly underbaked but will set as they cool.

1. Can I add different types of sprinkles?

• Absolutely! Use your favorite sprinkles or festive decorations for the holiday season.

1. Is this recipe suitable for making ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

1. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

• Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking, and don’t skip the step of rolling the dough into balls.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch for holiday gatherings.

1. What if the glaze is too thick?

• Add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

1. Are these cookies soft or crunchy?

• These cookies are soft and cake-like with a slight crisp around the edges.

1. Can I decorate the cookies ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can glaze and decorate the cookies a day in advance; just store them in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. With their light, fluffy texture and festive decorations, they embody the spirit of the season. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also a wonderful way to create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re baking for your loved ones or preparing gifts for neighbors, these cookies are sure to spread joy and cheer. I encourage you to gather your family in the kitchen, enjoy the baking process, and savor the delicious results. Happy baking and happy holidays!

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