Italian Christmas Cookies
Introduction
Italian Christmas Cookies are a beloved holiday treat that brings joy and warmth to any celebration. These soft, sweet cookies are loaded with flavor and can fill your home with a wonderful festive aroma. Let’s discover how to make these delightful cookies!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Italian Christmas Cookies is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit. They’re not just delicious; they also create lasting memories with family and friends. Baking these cookies together can be a fun and bonding experience, and they make perfect gifts or treats for holiday gatherings. You won’t be able to stop at just one!
How to Make Italian Christmas Cookies
Here’s how to whip up a batch of these amazing cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Optional: colored sprinkles or nuts for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the almond and vanilla extracts.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheets.
- Optional: Flatten slightly and add colored sprinkles or nuts on top of each cookie before baking.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve Italian Christmas Cookies
Once your cookies are cool and dusted, they are ready to be served! You can display them on a beautiful platter at holiday gatherings, or package them as gifts for family and friends. They also make a perfect treat alongside a cup of hot cocoa or coffee.
How to Store Italian Christmas Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay good for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Italian Christmas Cookies
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the dough; you want those cookies to stay soft.
- Experiment with different decorations like chocolate chips or dried fruit for a fun twist!
Variation
You can add things like lemon zest or replace almond extract with orange or anise extract for a different flavor. Get creative!
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but butter gives the cookies a richer flavor and better texture.
2. How do I know when the cookies are done?
They should be lightly golden around the edges. They will continue to cook a bit after taking them out.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before shaping.
Now that you have this simple and delicious recipe for Italian Christmas Cookies, it’s time to gather your loved ones and start baking! Enjoy the warmth and joy that these cookies will bring to your holiday season.