Italian Christmas Cookies
Italian Christmas Cookies are soft, cake-like cookies with a hint of buttery sweetness,
finished with a simple glaze that sets perfectly for a festive touch. These cookies are
a holiday classic, often enjoyed with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. They’re easy to make
and even easier to love, making them a must-have for your Christmas cookie tray.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt
For the Glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (or lemon extract for variation)
- Sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Using a spoon or small scoop, roll the dough into balls (about 1 inch) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip the cooled cookies into the glaze, letting the excess drip off.
- Decorate with sprinkles if desired. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Recipe Notes
- Flavor Twist: Use almond extract in the dough for a more traditional Italian flavor.
- Colorful Touch: Add festive red, green, and white sprinkles to make them perfect for Christmas.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition (per cookie)
Calories: 120 kcal | Servings: 24 cookies
Final Thoughts
Italian Christmas Cookies are a simple yet festive way to bring warmth and joy to your
holiday baking. With their tender texture and sweet glaze, they’re a treat that appeals to
kids and adults alike. Perfect for sharing at gatherings, gifting to loved ones, or enjoying
fresh from the oven, these cookies deserve a place on your Christmas table year after year.