Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies: A Family Tradition
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Indulge in the delightful flavors of these traditional Italian Christmas cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the festive season.
These Italian Christmas cookies have been a cherished family tradition for generations. Each bite brings a taste of nostalgia, blending flavors of citrus and almond, making them irresistible during the holiday season.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A blend of traditional flavors that evoke holiday spirit
- Soft and chewy texture with a delightful crunch
- Ideal for gifting or as a festive treat at gatherings
A Taste of Tradition
These Italian Christmas cookies are not just a treat but a cherished family tradition passed down through generations. Each bite transports you back to festive gatherings filled with laughter, joy, and the sweet scent of freshly baked goods wafting through the air. The combination of vanilla, almond, and orange zest creates a symphony of flavors that encapsulate the essence of the holiday season.
Baking these cookies together as a family can also be a wonderful way to bond. Children and adults alike can participate in the process, from mixing the dough to decorating the cookies with colorful sprinkles. This shared experience fosters a sense of togetherness and creates memories that last a lifetime.
Perfect for Gifting
These irresistible cookies are not only delightful to eat but also make for an adorable gift. Package them in festive boxes or jars, and they become a heartfelt present for friends, neighbors, or coworkers. The bright colors from the icing and sprinkles add a personal touch that shows you care.
Consider adding a handwritten note with your cookies, sharing your family's tradition and the love that went into baking them. This small gesture can make your gift even more special, spreading joy and warmth during the holiday season.
Customization Options
While this recipe provides a classic base, feel free to get creative with your cookies! You can incorporate various mix-ins such as chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or dried fruit to add unique flavors and textures. Experimenting with different icings and decorations can also make each batch special and tailored to your taste.
If you're looking for a healthier version, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. These modifications can cater to different dietary preferences while still delivering on taste.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious cookies:
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start mixing!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delightful Italian Christmas cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and orange zest, mixing until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Icing
In a small bowl, mix together powdered sugar and milk until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with decorations.
Enjoy your homemade Italian Christmas cookies with family and friends!
Storing Your Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, maintaining their chewy texture and delightful flavor. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper between each cookie to prevent sticking.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes. This will help restore their softness and make them taste just like they were freshly baked.
Serving Suggestions
These Italian Christmas cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. Their soft and chewy texture contrasts wonderfully with a warm beverage, making them a perfect afternoon treat or dessert after holiday meals.
For a festive twist, serve these cookies alongside a selection of other holiday treats, creating an inviting cookie platter. Mixing different flavors and textures will not only enhance the visual appeal but also cater to various taste preferences, making your holiday gatherings even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
→ How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze well. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you prefer, you can omit the almond extract or substitute it with an equal amount of additional vanilla extract.
Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies: A Family Tradition
Indulge in the delightful flavors of these traditional Italian Christmas cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the festive season.
Created by: Callista Green
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and orange zest, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a small bowl, mix together powdered sugar and milk until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with decorations.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 2g