Description
Soft, pillowy Italian Christmas cookies topped with a shiny glaze and colorful sprinkles, perfect for holiday celebrations, gifting, or enjoying with coffee.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- Nonpareils or sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside. - Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. - Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix in vanilla and almond extract (if using). - Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms. - Shape Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and place on baking sheet. Space 1 inch apart. - Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until bottoms are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. - Prepare Glaze
Mix powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed. - Decorate
Dip cooled cookies into the glaze and top with sprinkles. Let set on the wire rack.
Notes
- Flavor Variations: Substitute vanilla with lemon, anise, or orange extract.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Italian Christmas cookies, holiday cookies, glazed cookies, festive cookies, traditional Italian dessert