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Italian Christmas Cookies

A delightful blend of flavors and traditions that embody the spirit of the holiday season with a buttery texture and nutty undertones.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Holiday, Italian
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for the main dough
  • 1/2 cup almond flour adds richness and flavor
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder for leavening
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt to enhance flavor
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness
  • 1 large egg binds the ingredients
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavoring
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract enhances the almond flavor
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pistachios) optional, for added texture
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional) for a chocolatey variation
For Decorating
  • 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting and icing
  • 2 tablespoons milk or water to create the icing
  • Food coloring (optional for icing) for decorative purposes

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. Mix the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Gradually add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until combined.
  4. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  5. Fold in the chopped nuts and mini chocolate chips, if using.
Chill the Dough
  1. Cover the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Shape and Bake
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Once chilled, roll the dough into small balls—about one tablespoon each.
  3. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
  4. Flatten them slightly with your hands or a fork, and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges turn golden.
Decorate the Cookies
  1. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack.
  2. Prepare a simple icing using powdered sugar mixed with milk or water until achieving drizzle consistency.
  3. Add food coloring if desired and decorate the cookies with icing.
  4. Add more chopped nuts or sprinkles for an extra festive touch.

Notes

Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or replace chocolate chips with dried fruit for added flavor. Use lemon juice for a zesty icing!