Name: Best Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (measured by spooning); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup salted butter (1 stick, at room temperature); 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract (or vanilla or anise extract); 2 cups powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract; Nonpareil sprinkles

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a warm, soft cookie that tastes like the holidays wrapped up in a small treat, then you’re going to love this Best Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe. These cookies boast a perfect balance of buttery richness, a hint of almond extract that adds that signature Italian flair, and a sweet glaze topping adorned with colorful nonpareil sprinkles. They bring the festive spirit right into your kitchen with every bite, making them an absolute favorite to share with family and friends during the holiday season.

A white plate holds several small round cookies covered in smooth white icing that drips slightly over the edges. The cookies are topped with small round red, green, and white sprinkles, adding a festive look. One cookie is in front with a bite taken out, showing a soft, light, and slightly crumbly inside texture. The background is a white marbled surface, enhancing the clean and bright feel of the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most memorable recipes. Each component in this Best Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and festive look that makes these cookies stand out.

All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The foundation of the dough, providing structure and tenderness.
Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light and soft texture.
Large eggs (3): Bind the dough together while adding moisture and richness.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and contributes to the beautiful golden color.
Salted butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick, room temperature): Gives the cookie its lush, buttery flavor and tender crumb.
Almond extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Introduces a fragrant, nutty aroma essential for authentic Italian flavor – you can also use vanilla or anise extract if preferred.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): The secret to the smooth, sweet glaze that dresses the cookies.
Milk (2-3 tablespoons): Thins the powdered sugar into the perfect glaze consistency.
Almond or vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Added to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Nonpareil sprinkles: The festive, colorful touch that makes these cookies irresistible during the Christmas season.

How to Make Best Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing the all-purpose flour and baking powder in a small bowl. Combining these first ensures your cookies will have a gentle rise and a tender bite. Once they’re stirred together well, set this mixture aside while you tackle the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Add Wet Ingredients

Using an electric mixer, beat the room temperature butter until it’s light and fluffy – this will help create that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Next, add the eggs, granulated sugar, and almond extract. Continue mixing until everything is well incorporated, even if the mixture looks a bit chunky at first. This step brings the flavors together and makes the dough rich and aromatic.

Step 3: Combine and Chill the Dough

Gradually add the flour and baking powder mixture into your wet ingredients. Mix just until you see the ingredients come together; overmixing can make the cookies tough, and that’s the last thing we want. After combining, pop the dough into the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Once the dough is chilled, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls. The dough will be a little sticky, so you might find it helpful to wet your hands lightly or use a small scoop. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about one inch apart to give them room to spread. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, just until they are set but not browned. Overbaking can dry them out, and these cookies are prized for their softness. Let them cool completely before moving on to glazing.

Step 5: Prepare the Icing

To make the glaze, start with the powdered sugar in a bowl. Add milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition until a thick but dip-worthy glaze forms. Stir in almond or vanilla extract for that authentic finishing touch. This icing will coat your cookies and serve as the perfect sticky base for the festive sprinkles.

Step 6: Glaze and Decorate the Cookies

Place a cooling rack over a baking sheet to catch any drips. Hold each cooled cookie upside down and dip it into the glaze, ensuring the bottom is generously coated. Then turn the cookie right side up on the rack and sprinkle with nonpareil sprinkles while the glaze is still wet. Let them dry completely before serving or packing away – the finished cookies will shine with a lovely glossy finish and that iconic colorful crunch on top.

How to Serve Best Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe

Best Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

These cookies are gorgeous just as they are, but if you want to dress them up even more, consider dusting them lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or adding a few more nonpareil sprinkles right before serving. You might also serve them alongside a small dish of melted chocolate or a simple fruit compote for dipping, heightening the festive indulgence.

Side Dishes

Best enjoyed with a hot cup of espresso or a rich, creamy hot chocolate, these cookies are a delightful companion to your favorite warm drinks. They also pair beautifully with a light citrusy dessert wine or even spiced mulled wine, making your holiday gatherings feel extra special and authentic.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation makes the experience memorable. Arrange your Best Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe on a festive platter lined with evergreen sprigs, or tuck them into decorated holiday tins as gifts. For gatherings, place the cookies in small cello bags tied with red and green ribbons or create a cookie tower centerpiece layered with waxed paper and adorned with holiday ornaments for a charming display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keeping them sealed prevents them from becoming stale and retains that delightful soft texture that makes these Italian treats so indulgent.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these festive delights in advance, you can freeze the baked cookies after glazing and letting them dry completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to three months, letting you enjoy a taste of holiday magic whenever you want.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature. If you want to bring back a just-baked warmth, heat them gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for about five minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the glaze sticky or the cookie overly soft.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond extract with vanilla?

Absolutely! While almond extract gives the cookies their signature Italian flavor, vanilla extract makes a wonderful, milder alternative that still keeps the cookies delightfully fragrant.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for at least an hour is key to maintaining the shape when baking. Also, avoid over-mixing the dough as it can cause the cookies to spread thinner and become tougher.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

What can I use if I don’t have nonpareil sprinkles?

You can use any small, colorful sprinkles, crushed nuts, or even mini chocolate chips to decorate the cookies. They’ll still look festive and taste great!

Are these cookies suitable for freezing before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped cookie dough balls on a baking sheet before baking. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about making and sharing the Best Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe during the holiday season. From the simple yet flavorful ingredients to the joy of decorating with a glaze and sprinkles, these cookies bring warmth and happiness to any gathering. Give this recipe a try and watch as it becomes a beloved part of your holiday traditions, bringing smiles and sweet memories with every bite.