Authentic Italian Christmas Cookies

Craving a sweet taste of tradition? These Italian Christmas cookies are soft, almond-scented, and coated in a shiny glaze with festive sprinkles. They’re simple to make and perfect for gifting, cookie swaps, or adding sparkle to your holiday dessert tray.

Why You’ll Love These Italian Christmas Cookies

These soft, cakey almond-flavored cookies bring festive Italian tradition right to your kitchen. They’re easy to make, beautifully glazed, and perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, or your holiday dessert tray.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour, baking powder, melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and almond extract come together to form a soft, tender dough with just the right balance of sweetness and richness.

For the Glaze and Toppings

Powdered sugar, milk, almond extract, and colorful nonpareil sprinkles create the classic shiny coating that defines traditional Italian Christmas cookies.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Italian Christmas Cookies

Step 1 – Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk flour and baking powder together in a small bowl, then set aside to ensure even distribution in the dough.

Step 2 – Blend Wet Ingredients

Beat melted butter until fluffy. Add sugar, eggs, and almond extract, mixing until the mixture is smooth but slightly lumpy.

Step 3 – Form and Chill the Dough

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix. Cover and chill for at least one hour to firm up the dough.

Step 4 – Shape and Bake

Roll chilled dough into small balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet about one inch apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until set but not browned. Cool completely before glazing.

Step 5 – Make the Glaze

In a bowl, mix sifted powdered sugar with milk, adding a little at a time until a thick but pourable glaze forms. Stir in almond extract for flavor.

Step 6 – Dip and Decorate

Dip each cooled cookie into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Immediately add sprinkles before the icing sets for that signature festive look.

Baking Tips for Perfect Results

Use room-temperature eggs for even mixing. Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping to avoid dense cookies. Don’t overmix the dough—this keeps the texture soft and cake-like. For the glaze, aim for a consistency that coats but still drips slowly.

Substitutions and Variations

Swap almond extract for vanilla, lemon, or anise for a twist in flavor. Gluten-free flour with xanthan gum can be used for a wheat-free version. Unsalted butter or margarine can substitute for salted butter with slight adjustments. Try alternate toppings like crushed nuts, colored sugar, or jimmies for variety.

Make Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips

The dough can be made 24 hours in advance and kept refrigerated, then brought to room temperature before baking. Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to five days with layers separated by wax paper. They freeze well, glazed or unglazed, for up to three months—ideal for prepping ahead of the holidays.

Quick Recipe Facts

Prep time: 20–30 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 1–1.5 hours
Difficulty: Medium
Yields: Approximately 24 cookies

Each batch contains roughly 2500–2700 calories total, 30–35g protein, 100–110g fat, and 400–450g carbohydrates.

Related Recipes to Try

• classic gingerbread cookies recipe for the holidays
• irresistible candy cane cookies recipe for a festive holiday
• whipped shortbread cookies that melt in your mouth
• homemade torrone Christmas nougat recipe
• snowmen truffles — easy vegan Christmas cookies
• shortbread cookies recipe for a festive buttery treat

FAQ

Conclusion

Italian Christmas cookies are a beloved holiday classic that blend soft texture, sweet glaze, and cheerful decoration. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a festive party platter, these cookies are guaranteed to add warmth and tradition to your Christmas season. For more festive baking ideas, visit my Pinterest board for holiday inspiration.

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