Christmas time is upon us, and with it comes the sweet aroma of baking that fills our homes like a warm hug. Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy cookie that melts in your mouth, infused with the flavors of Italy. delicious Christmas sprinkle cookies These Easy Italian Christmas Cookies are not just treats; they are memories waiting to be created. For more inspiration, check out this explore more delicious recipes recipe.
Every holiday season, my family gathers in the kitchen, flour flying everywhere while we laugh and argue about who gets to lick the bowl. The joy of making these cookies together is as delightful as the cookies themselves. snickerdoodle cookies with eggnog Perfect for sharing at parties or simply indulging with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies promise to bring everyone together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Easy Italian Christmas Cookies are simple to make, perfect for holiday gatherings
- Their delightful flavors will transport you straight to Italy
- Visually stunning with festive decorations, they can be customized to suit any palate
- A versatile treat that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea during the holidays
Baking these cookies has always brought smiles and laughter from family members who couldn’t resist sneaking bites before they were even fully decorated.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is your base ingredient; choose a high-quality brand for best results.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key; opt for fine sugar to blend seamlessly into the dough.
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy creaming; it adds richness and flavor.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs enhance texture; use large eggs for consistent results.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps make your cookies light and fluffy; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract gives a warm, aromatic flavor; avoid imitation for the best taste.
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting on top; it adds sweetness and a lovely finish.
- Almond Extract: A delightful hint of almond elevates the flavor profile; use sparingly for balance. puff pastry apple strudel.
- Holiday Sprinkles or Nuts (optional): Choose colorful sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration and added texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your dough. This ensures even baking right from the start.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Aim for a pale color and airy texture.
Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla and almond extracts. The mixture should look smooth and velvety—like a cozy winter night.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix!
Scoop and Shape Cookies: Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart to allow room for spreading.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges turn golden brown while centers remain soft. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
These Easy Italian Christmas Cookies will fill your home with warmth and happiness this festive season! Enjoy every bite as you share them with friends and family while creating lasting memories together. vegan pistachio cookies.
You Must Know
- These Easy Italian Christmas Cookies are not just delicious; they bring festive joy to your home
- The delightful aroma of vanilla and almond fills the air, creating a warm holiday atmosphere
- Perfect for sharing, these cookies will impress everyone at your holiday gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your wet ingredients before gradually adding the dry ones for a smooth dough. This ensures even blending without lumps.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap almond extract for lemon or orange zest for a zesty twist. Add colorful sprinkles for that festive flair!
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. No reheating necessary; enjoy them fresh!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- These Easy Italian Christmas Cookies can be enhanced with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips
- Baking times may vary based on size; keep an eye on them!
- Don’t forget to chill the dough for better flavor and texture
There’s nothing quite like the moment when you pull these cookies out of the oven, and everyone gathers around, eyes shining with anticipation.
FAQ
Can I freeze Easy Italian Christmas Cookies?
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Yes, these cookies freeze well; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
What makes these cookies taste authentic?
Using high-quality almond extract and fresh ingredients enhances their traditional flavor.
How do I make my cookies softer?
For softer cookies, slightly underbake them and store in an airtight container right away.
Easy Italian Christmas Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Christmas is the perfect time to indulge in the warm, sweet flavors of Easy Italian Christmas Cookies. These delightful treats are not only simple to make but also bring families together in the spirit of the season. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and the aromatic essence of vanilla and almond, these cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or share them with loved ones over hot cocoa for memorable moments that last a lifetime.
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Holiday sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla and almond extracts.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder; gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden brown while centers remain soft. Allow cooling slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg