Name: Italian Easter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-483736H2M29S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: italian
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; ¼ cup whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; Sprinkles (optional)

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Italian Easter Cookies are a delightful treat traditionally enjoyed during the Easter season. These soft, pillowy cookies have a hint of citrus flavor and are topped with a simple icing glaze and festive sprinkles. Known as “Taralli Dolci” or “Anginetti” in different regions of Italy, these cookies are beloved for their light texture and subtle sweetness. Whether shaped into knots, rounds, or twists, they are a festive addition to any Easter table and are perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and Flavorful: These cookies are tender, slightly sweet, and infused with a hint of citrus, making them irresistible.
Traditional Easter Delight: A staple in many Italian households, these cookies bring a taste of nostalgia and cultural heritage to your holiday celebrations.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and an uncomplicated process, even beginners can bake these delicious cookies successfully.
Customizable: You can tweak the flavors by adding almond, vanilla, or anise extract, and decorate them with colorful sprinkles to match your holiday theme.
Perfect for Gifting: These cookies store well and make wonderful gifts for family and friends during Easter festivities.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Sugar
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Whole milk
Vanilla extract
Lemon zest
Powdered sugar
Fresh lemon juice
Sprinkles (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of dough and roll them into ropes, then shape them into knots, rings, or simple rounds.
Bake: Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Prepare the Icing: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies are cool, dip them into the icing and sprinkle with festive sprinkles.
Let Set: Allow the icing to set completely before serving or storing.

Variations

Flavor Adjustments: Substitute lemon zest with orange zest, or use almond or anise extract for a different taste.
Chocolate Glaze: Instead of lemon glaze, drizzle the cookies with melted chocolate.
Different Shapes: Make braided rings or twist shapes for added variety.
Colored Icing: Tint the icing with pastel food coloring for a more festive appearance.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
Refrigeration: If you live in a warm climate, refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
Reheating: Let the cookies come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a freshly baked taste.

FAQs

How do I make the cookies extra soft?

To achieve an extra soft texture, avoid overmixing the dough and ensure the cookies are not overbaked.

Can I use a different glaze?

Yes! Try an almond or vanilla glaze for a different flavor profile.

Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?

No, they can be stored at room temperature, but refrigeration extends their freshness.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What if I don’t have lemon zest?

You can substitute it with orange zest or leave it out for a milder flavor.

Can I add food coloring to the dough?

Yes, you can add pastel-colored food dye to the dough for a festive touch.

Why did my cookies turn out dry?

Overbaking or adding too much flour can cause dryness. Be sure to measure ingredients accurately.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for the best flavor, but margarine can be used as a substitute if needed.

What’s the best way to apply the glaze?

Dip the cookies into the glaze or drizzle it with a spoon for a smooth finish.

Can I skip the sprinkles?

Yes, the sprinkles are optional, but they add a festive touch!

Conclusion

Italian Easter Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday with family and friends. Their light, soft texture combined with a sweet glaze and festive sprinkles makes them a must-have for any Easter gathering. Easy to make and highly customizable, these cookies are perfect for baking with loved ones or gifting to others. Try this traditional recipe and bring a touch of Italy to your Easter festivities!

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