Description
Soft, tender, and festive Italian Christmas Cookies are a must-have for holiday celebrations. Flavored with vanilla, almond extract, and lemon zest, these melt-in-your-mouth treats are beautifully topped with colorful icing and sprinkles, perfect for gifting or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
- Cookies:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp grated lemon zest (optional)
- Icing:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk or water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring (red, green, or festive colors)
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, forming a dough.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on prepared baking sheets, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- For icing, mix powdered sugar with milk or water until smooth. Divide and color with food coloring.
- Dip the tops of cooled cookies in icing, decorate with sprinkles, and let set before serving.
Notes
- For a more traditional flavor, use anise extract instead of almond extract.
- Dough can be refrigerated if too soft.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
