Italian Christmas cookies are a beloved tradition, bringing a taste of festive joy to any holiday spread. This recipe for Italian Christmas cookies delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth delights, each crowned with a sweet, delicate almond glaze. They’re surprisingly simple to make, making them an ideal project for bakers of all levels looking to add a touch of authentic Italian charm to their celebrations. My first attempt at Italian Christmas cookies years ago yielded rather dry results, but I learned quickly that overmixing the flour is the enemy of tenderness. With this perfected recipe, you’ll achieve that perfect soft texture every time. These delightful Italian Christmas cookies are not just for Christmas; they’re wonderful anytime you crave a sweet, almond-infused treat.

⏱ Time: 45 min
👥 Servings: 24-30
📊 Level: Easy
🥗 10 ingredients
Italian Christmas Cookies: Almond Magic! Italian Christmas Cookies: Bake these soft, cake-like treats with a delicate almond glaze. Perfect for your holiday des

Italian Christmas Cookies: Almond Magic!

Italian Christmas Cookies: Bake these soft, cake-like treats with a delicate almond glaze. Perfect for your holiday dessert platters and gift giving.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 30
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, (softened)
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons almond extract
  • 2 large eggs, (room temperature)
  • 1 cup (125 g) confectioners’ sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract

Method
 

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a medium bowl until well combined.
  3. In a stand mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add 1 ½ teaspoons of almond extract, then add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet butter mixture on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  6. For the glaze, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, whole milk, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract until smooth, adjusting milk for desired consistency.
  7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake in a preheated oven (375°F / 190°C) for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

Notes

– Don’t overmix the flour: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix only until just combined to keep the cookies tender.
– Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, cohesive dough.
– For a softer cookie, do not bake until deeply golden; a light browning on the edges is perfect.
– Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze unglazed cookies for up to 2 months.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Pro tips

  • Don’t overmix the flour: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix only until just combined to keep the cookies tender.
  • Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, cohesive dough.
  • For a softer cookie, do not bake until deeply golden; a light browning on the edges is perfect.
  • Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze unglazed cookies for up to 2 months.

Bring the warmth and tradition of Italian baking into your home with these irresistible Italian Christmas cookies. They are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions for years to come. Enjoy every almond-kissed bite!

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