There’s something truly magical about whipping up a batch of soft, pillowy Italian Christmas Cookies during the holidays—the buttery dough, the sparkle of sprinkles, and the sweet vanilla glaze all come together in a bite that evokes cherished traditions and celebration. Whether you grew up dunking these cookies in milk at Nonna’s table or are baking them for the first time, this recipe is a festive favorite that’s as approachable as it is irresistible. From sharing with friends to dressing up your cookie platter, Italian Christmas Cookies are the edible embodiment of cozy holiday joy and togetherness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Italian Christmas Cookies are built on a foundation of simple ingredients, but each one earns its place—contributing its own magic to the ultimate cookie experience. It’s amazing how pantry staples, with a little holiday spirit, can transform into something that feels so special.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookies, giving them their tender, cakey structure.
- Baking powder: Just enough lift for an irresistibly light texture.
- Salt: A pinch brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (softened): For that rich, melt-in-your-mouth crumb (room temperature ensures easy mixing).
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
- Large eggs: Give the cookies structure and a soft, cake-like bite.
- Vanilla extract: The secret to rich, cozy aroma—don’t skimp here!
- Almond extract: Adds that uniquely Italian, slightly nutty flavor (or swap for lemon extract if you love citrus).
- Milk: Keeps the dough tender and helps the glaze reach the perfect consistency.
- Powdered sugar: The base of the dreamy, sweet glaze.
- Milk (for glaze): Just a splash makes the glaze smooth and dippable.
- Vanilla extract (for glaze): Doubles down on warm, comforting notes in every bite.
- Holiday sprinkles: Adds festive flair and a hint of crunch—don’t be shy with these!
How to Make Italian Christmas Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this not only ensures easy cookie removal, but it also makes cleanup a breeze. A prepared pan means you can focus all your attention on getting each cookie just right.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This gentle mixing ensures your leavening is evenly dispersed, setting your dough up for a lovely, uniform rise later on. Trust me, this quick step makes all the difference!
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Grab a large bowl and beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is your chance to infuse air into the dough, locking in that signature tender crumb Italian Christmas Cookies are known for. Creaming properly is the secret to bakery-worthy cookies.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts
Beat in the eggs one at a time, letting each blend thoroughly before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract—these bring all the cozy, nostalgic aroma that makes your kitchen smell like Christmas morning.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Overmixing can toughen the cookies, so stop once you see everything evenly incorporated. Add in those two tablespoons of milk to keep the dough moist and tender.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Scoop out heaping tablespoons of dough and gently roll each one into a ball for even baking. Space them about two inches apart on your lined baking sheet. Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes—watch for pale tops and lightly golden bottoms. This is the secret to that perfect soft, cake-like texture.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. The glaze will adhere best when the cookies are nice and cool, so resist the temptation to rush this step!
Step 8: Glaze and Decorate
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and just thick enough to coat the cookies. Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the glaze, then immediately shower with holiday sprinkles for signature Italian Christmas Cookies sparkle. Let them set until the glaze is firm to the touch.
How to Serve Italian Christmas Cookies
Garnishes
These cookies practically beg for a generous shower of holiday sprinkles, but you can go even further! Try a dusting of edible gold stars, a little citrus zest, or even a light drizzle of white chocolate. Each touch makes the Italian Christmas Cookies feel tailor-made for your celebration.
Side Dishes
Pair your Italian Christmas Cookies with rich, steaming cups of hot cocoa, robust espresso, or a mug of spiced tea. If you’re hosting a dessert spread, add bowls of juicy clementine segments or a fruit compote for a fresh, light balance. They’re also wonderful alongside a cheese board for a fun sweet-meets-savory twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Make a festive cookie tower by stacking glazed cookies into a mini Christmas tree, tuck them into cellophane bags with a pretty ribbon for heartfelt gifts, or arrange them on a platter ringed with candy canes and peppermint sticks. However you choose, Italian Christmas Cookies are guaranteed to steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature—they stay perfectly soft and fresh for up to five days. Line the layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent the glaze from sticking, especially if you’ve added loads of sprinkles.
Freezing
Both the dough and baked cookies freeze beautifully! Freeze dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. For baked cookies, layer them between sheets of parchment in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temp before glazing (or after, if you need to get ahead).
Reheating
If you love a warm cookie, pop Italian Christmas Cookies in the microwave for just a few seconds. They’ll be deliciously soft and the glaze turns a little glossy—just be sure not to overdo it or the glaze will melt right off!
FAQs
Can I make Italian Christmas Cookies without almond extract?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the almond extract with more vanilla, or use lemon extract for a fresh, zesty spin. The cookies will still taste incredible, just with a slightly different character.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
This usually happens if the butter is too soft or melted, or the dough is over-mixed. Pop your dough in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before baking for a puffier cookie, and always make sure your butter is just at room temperature.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Italian Christmas Cookies are perfect for holiday crowds, so feel free to make a double batch. Make sure you mix thoroughly and give your mixer a break between batches if you’re scaling up.
Is there a gluten-free version?
You can substitute your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in this recipe. The texture may be slightly different, but with a good blend, you’ll get delicious results almost indistinguishable from the original.
Can I make these with kids?
Absolutely! Rolling the dough and adding sprinkles are wonderful, hands-on steps for little ones. Italian Christmas Cookies are the perfect recipe for family baking sessions and creating sweet holiday memories together.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a cookie that transforms every gathering into a celebration, you can’t go wrong with Italian Christmas Cookies. I can’t wait for you to try them—one bite and they just might become your new holiday tradition!
Print
Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that’s perfect for festive gatherings or as a sweet gift. The tender, buttery cookies are topped with a vanilla glaze and colorful holiday sprinkles, making them a merry addition to any cookie platter.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Glaze:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Holiday sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, then add vanilla and almond extracts. Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape and bake: Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
- Make the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Glaze and decorate: Dip cooled cookies in glaze, top with sprinkles, and let set before serving.
Notes
- You can use lemon extract for a citrusy twist.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
