Deliciously Simple Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies

Experience the joy of Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies, a cherished holiday treat that embodies warmth and nostalgia.

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: almond cookies, Christmas Treats, easy cookie recipes, family traditions, holiday baking, Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 10

Chilling Time: 1

Total Time: 1 30

Servings: cookies

Calories: 150kcal

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
baking sheet
whisk
Plastic wrap
wire rack

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

1 cup Butter Provides richness; can substitute with margarine for dairy-free.
1 cup Sugar Sweetens; can use coconut sugar as an alternative.
2 large Eggs Acts as a binding agent; use flaxseed meal and water for a vegan option.
2 teaspoons Almond Extract Enhances flavor; vanilla extract can be used as a substitute.
3 cups All-Purpose Flour Gives structure; opt for gluten-free flour blend if needed.
2 teaspoons Baking Powder A leavening agent; ensure it's fresh.

For the Icing

2 cups Powdered Sugar For the glaze; can substitute with powdered monk fruit sweetener.
3 tablespoons Milk To thin the glaze; non-dairy milk can be used.

For Decoration

Sprinkles Optional but encouraged for festive flair.

Instructions

Making the Cookies

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Set aside.
Cream the Butter: Beat the butter until light and fluffy. Add sugar, eggs, and almond extract, mixing until smooth.
Incorporate Flour Mixture: Gradually add flour mixture to wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
Chill the Dough: Wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while dough chills.
Shape the Cookies: Scoop portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake Time: Bake cookies for about 8-10 minutes, until set but not browned.
Cool Completely: Let cookies cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Prepare the Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Add almond extract if desired.
Decorate the Cookies: Dip cooled cookies in glaze, allowing excess to drip off, and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow cookies to cool before icing for best results.

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