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Italian Christmas Cookies

These delightful Italian Christmas cookies, infused with almond flavor and adorned with colorful sprinkles, are a sweet tradition that celebrates love and heritage during the holiday season.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Swap with whole wheat for a slightly nuttier flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder A must for making those cookies rise and stay soft.
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened Ensure it's at room temperature for easy creaming.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the deal!
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract or anise extract Choose your favorite flavor.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature Room temp helps them blend better into the batter.
  • 2-3 tablespoons whole milk Adjust for glaze consistency.
Glaze and Topping
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar For a smooth, sweet glaze.
  • 1/3 cup Christmas sprinkles (nonpareils) Dress your cookies with festive cheer!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
  4. Add the almond extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until the dough comes together.
  6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Place the chilled dough balls on the baking sheets, leaving space between each.
  3. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
  4. Let them cool completely.
Glazing
  1. In a small bowl, combine confectioners' sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and almond extract until smooth.
  2. Dip the top of each cookie into the glaze and sprinkle with Christmas sprinkles.
  3. Set aside to let the glaze set completely.

Notes

Use a silicone spatula to handle sticky dough. For a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk. Always keep an eye on the cookies in the oven.