Name: Italian Christmas Cookies: Festive Flavors to Share Joyously
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar); 2 large eggs (for a vegan option, use flax eggs); 1 teaspoon almond extract (or substitute with vanilla/anise extract); 2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free blend can be used); 1 teaspoon baking powder (ensure it's fresh); 1 cup powdered sugar (erythritol powdered sugar for a low-calorie option); 2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired thickness); 1 teaspoon extra almond extract (for enhanced flavor)

The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house is an instant mood lifter—a true holiday classic! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Italian Christmas Cookies, a delightful treat that not only brings festive cheer but also offers endless customization options. Whether you prefer the traditional almond flavor, a hint of vanilla, or a dash of anise, these cookies adapt to your taste while remaining effortless to prepare. They’re perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings or as thoughtful gifts for loved ones. Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly, making your holiday baking a breeze. Curious about how to create your own batch of these festive delights? Let’s dive in and make some magic in the kitchen together!

Why Try These Italian Christmas Cookies?

Ultimate Customization: With options like almond, vanilla, or anise extract, you can tailor these cookies to suit every palate.
Effortlessly Festive: The delightful aroma of baked cookies creates a festive ambiance in your home, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance for a hassle-free baking experience during the busy holiday season.
Gift-Worthy Treats: These cookies make wonderful gifts, beautifully wrapped for friends and family, or perfect for cookie exchanges.
Simple and Delicious: Easy to follow, this recipe is a breeze even for beginner bakers; check out our Cinnamon Roll Cookies for more festive inspiration!

Italian Christmas Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure it’s unsalted for better control over salt levels.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and enhances browning; coconut sugar can be a less refined substitute.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients for a sturdy structure; for a vegan option, try flax eggs.
• Almond Extract – Infuses a classic nutty flavor pivotal for authenticity; swap with vanilla or anise extract for tasty variations.
• Flour – Forms the base of the cookies; all-purpose works best, or use a gluten-free blend as needed.
• Baking Powder – Gives the cookies a fluffy rise; always ensure it’s fresh for optimal performance.
• Powdered Sugar – Used for glazing; opt for erythritol powdered sugar for a low-calorie alternative.

For the Glaze
• Milk – Helps achieve the right consistency for icing the cookies; adjust the quantity for desired thickness.
• Extra Almond Extract – Adds depth to the glaze’s flavor; consider a few drops for an enhanced festive touch.

With this simple yet delightful ingredients list, you’re one step closer to creating your own Italian Christmas cookies that are sure to brighten any holiday gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Whisk them together until evenly mixed, making sure there are no lumps. This dry mixture is essential for the structure of your Italian Christmas cookies, so take a moment to ensure it’s well-blended before moving on.

Step 2: Cream Butter
In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of unsalted butter on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy, usually about 3-4 minutes. The butter should turn a pale yellow, indicating it’s well-aerated. This step is crucial as it adds richness and texture to your cookies, setting the foundation for their delightful flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract to your creamed butter. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are just combined, about 1-2 minutes. You want to blend them without overmixing, as this will help keep your Italian Christmas cookies soft and tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour
Gradually add your flour mixture to the wet ingredients, using a spatula or wooden spoon to stir gently until just combined. About 1-2 minutes of mixing should suffice. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; the dough will look slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 1 hour. This resting period makes the dough easier to handle and helps the flavors meld beautifully. You can even prepare the dough a day ahead, ensuring it’s ready when you’re set to bake your Italian Christmas cookies.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the dough is chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into smooth balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart to allow for spreading as they bake until golden.

Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges look set but the centers still appear soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as you want your Italian Christmas cookies to retain a delightful, chewy texture even after cooling.

Step 8: Cool
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step is essential, as the cookies continue to set and develop their wonderful flavor during this time.

Step 9: Glaze Preparation
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk until you achieve a thick, drizzle-able glaze. For a festive boost, stir in a few drops of almond extract to enhance the flavor of your icing. Adjust your milk quantity for the desired thickness if needed.

Step 10: Decorate
Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. If desired, sprinkle festive decorations on top of the glaze before it sets. This final touch not only adds flavor but also makes your Italian Christmas cookies look beautifully festive and inviting.

Expert Tips for Italian Christmas Cookies

Chill Time Matters: Allowing the dough to chill for at least an hour makes it easier to shape and enhances the flavors in your Italian Christmas cookies.
Simple Measurements: Spoon and level your flour when measuring to avoid dense cookies; never scoop directly from the bag.
Gentle Mixing: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined to keep your cookies tender—overmixing can lead to tough results.
Keep an Eye on Baking: Since every oven varies, check your cookies a minute or two early to prevent overbaking; they should be soft in the center.
Decorating Tip: Add festive sprinkles before the glaze sets for an extra colorful touch; this makes your cookies gift-worthy and visually appealing!

How to Store and Freeze Italian Christmas Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your Italian Christmas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can last up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw frozen cookies in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. If desired, warm them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to regain freshness.

Frosting Tip: Wait to glaze your Italian Christmas cookies until just before serving to keep the icing from becoming too soft or losing its luster.

Italian Christmas Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful Italian Christmas cookies—your kitchen is your canvas!

Almond Twist: Use almond extract for the traditional flavor or mix in almond flour for added texture and nuttiness.
Almond flour will introduce a delightful crunch that complements the soft dough perfectly.
Vanilla Delight: Opt for vanilla extract instead of almond for a sweet, subtle flavor shift.
This simple switch transforms the cookies into a comforting classic everyone will love.
Anise Surprise: Swap almond extract for anise extract to celebrate traditional Italian flavors.
This adds a unique licorice note that dances on your palate and infuses warmth into the holiday spirit.
Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright, fresh flavor.
The zest will awaken your cookies, offering a fragrant twist that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Chocolate Indulgence: Fold in mini chocolate chips to satisfy the sweet tooth in your family.
Each bite reveals a melty treat that perfectly balances with the cookie’s buttery richness.
Fruit Explosion: Dried cranberries or chopped apricots can be added for a chewy burst of sweetness.
This variation gives the cookies a festive pop of color and an unexpected twist that delights the senses.
Spicy Kick: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor boost.
This hint of spice will envelop your cookies in holiday warmth, inviting everyone to gather around.
Nutty Goodness: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and hearty texture.
Nuts bring a rustic vibe to your cookies, making them even more delightful and satisfying.

Once you’ve explored these variations, don’t forget to check out our Pebble Sugar Cookies for another fun twist or try out the Chewy Brown Cookies for a scrumptious baking adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Italian Christmas Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and then refrigerating it. To maintain their delightful texture, make sure to cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for easier handling, then shape and bake as directed. This allows you to enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, making your holiday baking not only a breeze but just as delicious!

What to Serve with Italian Christmas Cookies

Indulging in these festive treats can inspire a delightful holiday spread that’s sure to impress.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy texture of hot chocolate perfectly complements the soft, sweet cookies, creating a cozy treat for wintry nights.
Espresso or Coffee: A bold cup of espresso or coffee enhances the cookies’ almond flavor, making for a delightful pairing during holiday gatherings.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring citrus adds a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness of the cookies while providing a burst of color.
Spiced Mulled Wine: This aromatic drink, with its warm spices, pairs beautifully with the nutty flavors of the cookies, creating a festive atmosphere.
Cheeseboard: Add a selection of cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits for a complete dessert experience; the salty and sweet combinations elevate your holiday platter.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the melting creaminess contrasts wonderfully with the tender cookie texture.
Zesty Lemonade: A chilled, slightly tart lemonade refreshingly balances the rich flavors of the cookies, perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers.
Chocolate-Covered Fruit: The decadent chocolate pairs exquisitely with the almond cookies, providing a touch of elegance to your dessert table.
Mini Fruit Tarts: Bright, colorful fruit tarts offer a delightful visual alongside the cookies, ensuring your dessert display is as festive as it is delicious.
Holiday Spritz Cookies: These cheerful cookies add variety and texture to your spread; their bright colors and light flavors complement the rich Italian Christmas cookies perfectly.

Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for these Italian Christmas cookies to have complete control over the salt levels in your recipe. Unsalted butter allows the sweetness and other flavors to shine through—so be sure to avoid salted butter if you can!

How should I store my baked cookies?
To maintain the delightful texture and flavor of your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, store them in the freezer; just ensure they are unfrosted and laid in a single layer before moving to a zip-top bag where they can be stored comfortably for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Freezing the dough is a fantastic option for those busy days. Shape the cookie dough into balls, then freeze them on a baking sheet for about an hour. Once firm, transfer the balls into a zip-top bag—this method allows for easy baking later. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking, adding a minute or two to your baking time if baking straight from frozen.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very good question! If you’re preparing these cookies for guests, be sure to ask about potential allergies. The primary allergens are eggs and gluten, but fear not—there are great alternatives! For a vegan option, try substituting eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, letting it rest for 5 minutes) and use gluten-free flour for the base. This way, everyone can enjoy the holiday spirit safely!