Ingredients:
Cookies, you’ll need:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
Sprinkles for decoration
These simple ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making this recipe both easy and budget-friendly. Don’t underestimate the importance of high-quality butter and fresh eggs, as they contribute to the cookies’ delicate texture.
Step-by-Step Directions for Italian Christmas Cookies
- Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies don’t stick and makes cleanup easier. - Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial to getting that melt-in-your-mouth texture that Italian Christmas Cookies are known for. - Add the Eggs and Extracts
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts for a burst of flavor. - Combine Dry Ingredients
Preparation:
2 cups all-purpose flour1/2 cup granulated sugar1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened2 large eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract1/2 teaspoon almond extract2 teaspoons baking powder1/4 teaspoon salt1 cup powdered sugar2-3 tablespoons milkSprinkles for decorationThese simple ingredients are likely already in your pantry, making this recipe both easy and budget-friendly. Don’t underestimate the importance of high-quality butter and fresh eggs, as they contribute to the cookies’ delicate texture.Step-by-Step Directions for Italian Christmas CookiesPreheat and PrepareStart by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies don’t stick and makes cleanup easier.Cream the Butter and SugarIn a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial to getting that melt-in-your-mouth texture that Italian Christmas Cookies are known for.Add the Eggs and ExtractsBeat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts for a burst of flavor.Combine Dry IngredientsIn a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stir until everything is just incorporated.Shape and BakeRoll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass to create a flat surface. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Let them cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.Glaze and DecorateIn a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Dip the top of each cookie into the glaze and finish with festive sprinkles. Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing.
Enjoy