Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies

Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe (with Glaze & Sprinkles)

If there’s one treat that brings families together during the holiday season, it’s Italian Christmas Cookies. These soft, cake-like cookies are lightly flavored with vanilla and almond, topped with a sweet glaze, and decorated with festive sprinkles. They are perfect for sharing with loved ones, gifting in cookie boxes, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

Here’s a long, detailed recipe that Google (and your guests!) will absolutely love.

 Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Pinch of salt

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar), sifted
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (whole milk or 2%)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional: replace with almond extract for extra flavor)

For Decoration:

• Festive holiday sprinkles (red, green, gold, silver, or nonpareils)

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer).
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in vanilla extract and almond extract. The almond extract is what gives these cookies their classic Italian bakery flavor.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky but should hold its shape.

2. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and roll into balls.

3. Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball.
3. Place dough balls on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. You can leave them as balls or shape them into small twists or knots for a traditional look.

4. Bake

• Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale and soft.
• Do not overbake — these cookies are meant to stay soft and cake-like.
• Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

5. Make the Glaze

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. The glaze should be thick but pourable. If it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar; if too thick, add a little more milk.

6. Dip & Decorate

1. Dip the tops of each cooled cookie into the glaze.
2. Immediately sprinkle with festive sprinkles before the glaze sets.
3. Place the cookies back on a rack or parchment paper to allow the glaze to firm up (about 20 minutes).

 Storage & Serving Tips

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze glazed cookies in single layers separated by wax paper for up to 2 months.
• These cookies taste even better the next day as the flavors settle.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, cake-like texture with a delicate almond flavor.
• Perfectly festive with colorful sprinkles.
• Easy to make in large batches for Christmas parties, cookie swaps, or gift boxes.
• A true Italian family tradition that brings warmth and joy during the holidays.