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Italian Christmas Cookies

Delightful holiday treats that are soft, buttery, and adorned with festive glazes and sprinkles, perfect for creating cherished memories with loved ones.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 140
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Dough
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is at room temperature.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • 1 each zest of 1 lemon
  • 0.5 cup milk
For the Glaze
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk For glaze
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract For glaze
For Decoration
  • 1 cup red and green sprinkles Optional
  • optional cherry preserves or jam Optional, for filling
  • optional chopped pistachios or almonds Optional, for topping
  • optional colored sugars or candy sprinkles Optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts along with the lemon zest.
  5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk until a soft and smooth dough forms.
Baking
  1. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
  2. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
  3. Once baked, let the cookies cool on a wire rack while you prepare the glaze.
Glazing
  1. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Dip the tops of the cookies in the glaze and sprinkle with decorations while still wet.
  3. Serve to family and friends or enjoy them yourself!

Notes

For a richer flavor, toast the chopped nuts before topping. For a fruitier taste, add a dollop of cherry preserves or jam in the center of each ball before baking. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.