Italian Christmas Cookies

Introduction

As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen fills with warmth and delightful aromas, and one of my all-time favorite traditions is baking Italian Christmas cookies. These sweet treats not only bring joy to my family but also create lasting memories as we gather to decorate and enjoy them together. The moment these cookies emerge from the oven, they are a feast for the senses—golden edges, a soft, tender center, and a luscious glaze that beckons for sprinkles. My family has eagerly awaited these cookies each year, and with each bite, we are transported to a world of holiday cheer. With their delicate flavors of vanilla and almond, these cookies perfectly capture the essence of Christmas.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Eggs and Extracts: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts until fully combined.
4. 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.
5. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Dip the top of each cookie into the glaze and decorate with sprinkles. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve cookies on a festive platter for holiday gatherings.
• Pair with hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful treat.
• Use a variety of sprinkles to create a colorful display.
• Gift cookies in a decorative tin to friends and family.
• Enjoy as a sweet snack throughout the holiday season.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender.
3. Experiment with Extracts: Try using different flavor extracts, such as lemon or orange, to create a unique twist on the traditional flavor.
4. Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of baking to prevent overbaking.
5. Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate-Dipped Cookies: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate instead of glazing them for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for added texture and flavor.
• Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped candied fruit into the dough for a festive touch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Lemon Glaze: Use lemon juice instead of milk in the glaze for a bright, citrusy finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Display cookies on a tiered cake stand for an elegant presentation.
• Serve alongside other holiday treats, such as gingerbread cookies or peppermint bark.
• Include them in a holiday dessert table for festive parties.
• Pair with a selection of cheeses and fruit for a sweet and savory platter.
• Enjoy while watching holiday movies with family and friends.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
   Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.
2. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
4. What can I use instead of almond extract?
   You can substitute it with more vanilla extract or use a different flavor, like hazelnut.
5. How do I store leftover cookies?
   Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.
6. Can I decorate the cookies with royal icing instead?
   Yes, royal icing works well for decorating and can create more intricate designs.
7. What’s the best way to glaze the cookies?
   Dip the top of each cookie into the glaze for an even coating or use a spoon to drizzle it over the cookies.
8. Can I add food coloring to the glaze?
   Absolutely! Add gel food coloring to the glaze to create colorful designs.
9. How can I make these cookies more festive?
   Use holiday-themed sprinkles, or shape the dough into festive shapes using cookie cutters.
10. Are these cookies suitable for shipping?
    Yes, once fully cooled and stored properly, they can be shipped, but it’s best to avoid overly decorative cookies that might break during transit.

Conclusion

Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful holiday tradition that brings joy and sweetness to the festive season. With their tender texture, subtle almond flavor, and festive glaze, these cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying during quiet moments by the fire. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create a batch of these delectable treats that will fill your home with warmth and holiday spirit!

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