Description
These classic Italian Christmas Cookies are tender, buttery treats perfect for holiday celebrations. Lightly flavored with vanilla and almond extracts, they are topped with a sweet powdered sugar glaze and festive sprinkles, delivering both delightful textures and flavors. Easy to prepare and bake, these cookies make an excellent addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 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
Glaze and Decoration
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a mixer or spoon until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help achieve a tender texture in the cookies.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs one at a time, incorporating each fully before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts for a fragrant and authentic flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten each ball for uniform baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Glaze and Decorate: In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and pourable. Dip the top of each cooled cookie into this glaze and immediately decorate with sprinkles. Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing the cookies.
Notes
- Softened butter is key to achieving the right cookie texture — avoid melting the butter.
- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to keep cookies tender.
- For a stronger almond flavor, you can add a little more almond extract, but be cautious as it can be overpowering.
- Allow the glaze to fully set before packaging to prevent sticking.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
