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Delicious Italian Christmas Cookies

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Italian Christmas Cookies, also known as Italian Anise Cookies, are a beloved holiday treat that brings festive cheer to any celebration. These soft, pillowy cookies are lightly flavored with anise, giving them a unique and aromatic taste that perfectly complements the sweet glaze and colorful sprinkles. Often found on holiday cookie platters, these Italian cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends during Christmas gatherings or as part of a holiday cookie exchange.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp anise extract
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp anise extract
  • Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Cookie Dough:
    1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
    2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
    3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
    4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
    5. Add the milk, anise extract, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
    6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Shape the Cookies:
    1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into small balls.
    2. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
    3. For traditional Italian cookie shapes, gently flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon, or shape them into small crescent shapes.
    4. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
  • Prepare the Glaze:
    1. While the cookies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and anise extract in a small bowl until smooth and slightly runny.
    2. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach a drizzleable consistency.
  • Glaze the Cookies:
    1. Once the cookies have cooled completely, dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
    2. Decorate with colorful sprinkles while the glaze is still wet.
    3. Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes before serving or storing.
  • Serve:
    1. Enjoy the cookies with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea, and share them with loved ones for a festive holiday treat.

Notes

  • Anise extract gives these cookies their signature flavor, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount or substitute with vanilla extract.
  • You can also add a little lemon zest to the dough for a fresh, citrusy twist.
  • If you want to make the cookies in advance, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
  • These cookies are also great for gifting—just place them in a festive tin or box for a charming homemade gift.

Keywords: Italian Christmas Cookies, Anise Cookies, Holiday Cookie Recipe, Italian Holiday Treats, Soft Christmas Cookies, Festive Italian Desserts, Christmas Cookie Exchange.

Find it online: https://inqelab.com/delicious-italian-christmas-cookies/