Italian Cookies Recipe | Classic, Sweet & Irresistible

Warm, soft, and lightly sweet with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, Italian cookies have a special way of turning an ordinary afternoon into a cozy celebration. The smell of butter and vanilla drifting through the kitchen feels like Christmas itself — familiar, gentle, and comforting. These simple, golden treats are as perfect for gifting as they are for sneaking with a cup of espresso.

Why You’ll Love These Italian Cookies

There’s something timeless about Italian cookies. They’re buttery yet light, sweet but not cloying, and perfect with a warm drink. Their soft, biscuit-like texture makes them irresistible on any Christmas cookie platter. You can flavor them with vanilla, almond, lemon, or even anise — each bringing its own twist of nostalgia. They’re also easy to shape, glaze, and decorate, making them both fun and foolproof for holiday baking.

You’ll love how simple the dough is to mix, how quickly they bake, and how beautifully they hold up in tins for gifting. Whether you’re baking with kids or preparing for a family gathering, these cookies bring a gentle rhythm to the kitchen that feels peaceful and festive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies

• 10 tablespoons (142 g) salted butter, softened – gives the cookies their tender, rich crumb.
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps the dough cream smoothly.
• 3 large eggs, room temperature – bind the dough and make it fluffy.
• 2 tablespoons milk – adds moisture and helps blend the ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for classic Italian flavor; substitute almond or anise if you prefer.
• Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness.
• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, plus up to 1 extra cup for shaping – structure and softness in balance.
• 3½ teaspoons baking powder – gives the cookies a gentle rise.

Softened butter is key — too cold, and the dough won’t come together; too warm, and it’ll lose its shape. Using room-temperature eggs also helps the mixture emulsify, keeping the cookies light.

For the Glaze

• ½ cup (65 g) powdered sugar
• 1½–2 tablespoons milk
• Optional: nonpareils or sprinkles for decoration

To get that glossy, Italian-style glaze, whisk powdered sugar and milk until just thin enough to brush on. A thinner glaze sets quickly and gives that signature sheen. If you want a thicker, frosting-like finish, reduce the milk slightly.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Italian Cookies

Step 1 – Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for even baking and easy cleanup.

Step 2 – Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step adds air, giving your cookies that tender crumb. The mixture should look pale and creamy.

Step 3 – Mix in Wet Ingredients

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Then stir in milk, vanilla, and salt. The mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy.

Step 4 – Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

Step 5 – Adjust Dough and Shape

If the dough feels sticky, add up to 1 more cup of flour — but do it slowly. Too much will make the cookies dry. The dough should be soft yet shapeable. Roll tablespoon-sized balls or form small twists, rings, or knots — traditional for Christmas.

Step 6 – Bake to Perfection

Place cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes or until the bottoms are just set. The tops should remain pale; don’t wait for golden color, or they’ll lose their tender texture.

Step 7 – Cool and Glaze

Let cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then move to a rack. Once completely cool, brush or dip them in the glaze. Immediately sprinkle with nonpareils before it sets for that signature festive look.

Baking Tips and Variations

For softer cookies, stick close to the base flour amount. Add more only if shaping or rolling the dough. Remember that every extra spoon of flour makes them drier and less sweet.

You can also play with flavors: substitute lemon extract for brightness, almond extract for a nutty aroma, or anise extract for that distinct Italian bakery touch.

If you love variety, try using a thicker glaze and tinting it with food coloring for holiday cheer. Or, for a grown-up twist, add a teaspoon of amaretto to the glaze.

For other festive ideas, check out these chewy pumpkin cookies for festive baking, or bake a batch of peppermint bark brownies perfect for holiday trays.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Once the glaze has set, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They’ll stay soft and fragrant.

To freeze, place unglazed cookies in a sealed container with parchment between layers. Thaw at room temperature before glazing. Glazed cookies can also be frozen, but they lose some shine when thawed — though they taste just as lovely.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Italian cookies shine next to espresso, cappuccino, or dessert wine. They’re perfect on a Christmas cookie platter alongside chocolate thumbprint cookies with festive flair or soft and buttery butter pecan cookies.

You can gift them in tins lined with parchment, arrange them at bake sales, or share them at family gatherings. Their subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with rich drinks or spiced winter desserts.

Common Questions About Italian Cookies (FAQ)

More Such Recipes

• classic chocolate crinkle cookies recipe
• patriotic sugar cookie bars for celebrations
• easy no-bake cookies for busy holiday prep

Conclusion

Baking Italian cookies isn’t just about the recipe — it’s about the quiet joy that fills your kitchen. Each buttery bite carries warmth, family, and a sense of holiday togetherness. Whether you glaze them simply or shower them with sprinkles, they’ll always bring smiles.

So grab your mixing bowl, turn on the oven, and start a new Christmas tradition that feels as old as time and as sweet as home. For more baking inspiration, find new seasonal ideas on Pinterest or join the community on Facebook.

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