Italian Christmas Cookies: The Easiest Holiday Treat
Quick and easy, 10-ingredient Italian Christmas Cookies. These cookies will rival your classic sugar cookie recipe that’s been passed down from generation to generation. These cookies are soft, fluffy, and have a buttery-rich sugar cookie flavor.
It’s the start of the holiday season and now is the best time to make a list of Christmas cookies and desserts to make for family parties. Sweet treats like cookies, dessert bars, brownies, and holiday candy regularly make an appearance on our table.
The Tradition Behind Italian Christmas Cookies
Growing up, my holiday season would not be complete without a batch of Italian Christmas cookies. My grandmother learned how to make these cookies from an Italian baker in Milwaukee, and she passed that knowledge down to me. Every December, I would watch her with awe as she transformed simple ingredients into something truly special. The kitchen would be filled with the comforting scent of vanilla and almond extract, and we would decorate the cookies together while sharing stories. Every Christmas party, my whole family would look forward to these cookies, knowing they were an essential part of our celebration.
Why You Will Love These Cookies
One of the reasons why you will love these Italian Christmas cookies is how easy they are to make. Unlike other holiday cookies that require rolling out the dough on a floured surface, these cookies just need to be chilled and then scooped. This means less mess and more flexibility. During the holiday season, when counter space is at a premium and time is scarce, this is a major advantage. It is also why I love taking these ingredients to a friend’s house to bake together. The dough is easy to manage, and while it chills, there is plenty of time to enjoy a glass of wine and good conversation.
These Italian Christmas cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just enjoying with a cup of coffee on a cold winter afternoon. The recipe is simple, using pantry staples that you probably already have at home. The light, buttery texture makes them irresistible, while the bright glaze and sprinkles add the perfect festive flair. Plus, they are easy to make in big batches, so you can have plenty to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these festive Italian Christmas cookies, you will need simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
The base of the cookie dough includes 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt for leavening and structure. You’ll need 1/2 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature, which gives the cookies their rich, buttery flavor, along with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar to add sweetness.
Three large eggs provide moisture and help bind everything together, while 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract (or almond extract for a more traditional flavor) add aromatic notes that make these cookies truly irresistible. A quarter cup of milk helps to create a soft, pliable dough. For the glaze, you will need 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of milk to achieve the perfect consistency, plus festive sprinkles for decoration to add that final holiday touch.
How to Make Italian Christmas Cookies
When I make these classic Italian Christmas cookies, I begin by preheating my oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). I always start by preparing the dough. In a medium bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure the leavening agents are evenly distributed. In a separate large bowl, I cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture. I then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, before incorporating the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
Once the wet ingredients are ready, I gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk. This technique helps achieve a balanced, soft dough that is firm enough to shape but slightly sticky, ensuring the cookies bake up tender. I roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each ball to allow for spreading during baking.
I bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden while the tops remain pale. This ensures the cookies maintain a soft, fluffy texture. After baking, I allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.
For the glaze, I whisk together powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. The consistency should be thick but spreadable, allowing it to adhere well to each cookie. I dip the tops of each cooled cookie into the glaze, then decorate with festive sprinkles to add a burst of color and holiday cheer. I always let the glaze fully set before serving or storing the cookies.
Tips for Perfect Italian Christmas Cookies
- Flavor Variation: Feel free to experiment with different extracts. Lemon extract adds a nice citrusy touch, while almond extract gives a more traditional Italian flavor.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well, making them perfect for preparing in advance.
- Batch Size: This recipe makes about 3 dozen cookies, but you can easily double it if you need more for a party or holiday gifts.
The secret to creating bakery style sugar cookies is to add vanilla and almond extract. Almond extract is used to give cake batter desserts their flavor, and it makes these cookies a go-to Nonna-approved Christmas cookie recipe this holiday season.
If you’re looking to add more flavor to these cookies, try experimenting with different extracts and citrus zest. Almond extract is my go-to flavor enhancer when flavoring cookies and cakes as it adds a “cake batter” flavor I remember and loved growing up.
More flavor ideas include peppermint, lemon, caramel, maple, and anise extract flavorings.
A Special Touch for the Holidays
What makes Italian Christmas cookies so special is the joy of making them with family. Whether you are continuing a long-standing tradition or starting a new one, these cookies bring warmth and cheer to the holiday season. The simple act of decorating them together can create cherished memories that last a lifetime. So gather your ingredients, invite some loved ones, and enjoy the process of making these delightful treats that embody the spirit of the holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of extract should I use for Italian Christmas cookies?
You can use either vanilla or almond extract for these cookies. Almond extract is more traditional and adds a nostalgic, slightly nutty flavor, while vanilla extract is classic and provides a comforting, sweet aroma. You can even experiment with lemon extract for a refreshing twist.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the dough, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Chilling the dough also makes it easier to handle and helps enhance the flavors.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent the cookies from spreading too much, make sure the dough is properly chilled before baking. Using room temperature butter (not melted) and measuring your flour accurately will also help the cookies maintain their shape.
How do I store Italian Christmas cookies?
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well—just place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature when ready to serve.
Can I freeze the cookies after glazing?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies after they are glazed. Just make sure the glaze has fully set before placing them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
What other toppings can I use besides sprinkles?
Besides traditional holiday sprinkles, you can use finely chopped nuts, colored sugar, or even drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze for a different variation. Feel free to get creative and personalize your cookies!
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Italian Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 1½ sticks
- 1⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract could also use lemon extract or zest/juice
- 3¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 4 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Glaze
- 2 cups powdered confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tbsp cold water
- 2 tsp almond extract
- Christmas sprinkles or jimmies
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a bowl fit with a mixer, cream butter, and sugar on high until light and fluffy; about 5 minutes.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing until incorporated. Beat in vanilla and almond extract.
- Slowly add dry ingredients into wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Beat until incorporated.
- Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease baking sheets or line with parchment paper.
- Dough will be sticky. Use a cookie scoop to scoop dough onto baking sheets or simply use a tablespoon to scoop dough. TIP: If scoop gets sticky, dip it into a bowl of powdered sugar between scoops. Space cookies 1 inch apart.
- Bake in oven for 13-15 minutes or until edges are slightly golden.
- Allow to cool. Transfer to a cooling rack. TIP: Pat the tops of the cookies after baking with a flat spatula to decrease the puffiness if desired. This makes it easier to frost and sprinkle.
- In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, water, and almond extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Use a spoon to add glaze to each cookie over a cookie rack. Top with sprinkles.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is only an estimate and it’s accuracy is not guaranteed to be exact.
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24 Responses
You mention chilling them before baking. Is this step necessary, and if so for how long?
Yes, chilling the dough is an important step as it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and enhances their flavor. I recommend chilling the dough for at least 4 hours or overnight if you have time. This makes the dough easier to handle and results in soft, fluffy cookies with that classic holiday texture.
In your description before the recipe you talk about adding milk but there is no milk listed in the ingredient list for the cookies…?? Please advise….
Hi Sarah! Thank you so much for pointing that out! You’re absolutely right – the milk was missing from the ingredient list. I’ve updated the recipe card to include ¼ cup of milk in the cookie dough, just like in the description. I really appreciate you catching this! 😊
Let me know if you have any other questions or need further clarification. I hope the cookies turn out amazing for you!
Happy baking and warm holiday wishes!
Jessica
Can these cookies be made ahead and froze?
Yes, these Italian Christmas Cookies can be made ahead of time and frozen. To freeze them, first ensure they are completely cooled after baking. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once they are frozen, transfer the cookies to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can typically be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. For best results, thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving. If you’ve already applied the glaze and sprinkles, be cautious as freezing might slightly alter their texture and appearance.
How many cookies does this recipe make? Thank you.
Hello Cathy, this Italian Christmas Cookies recipe yields approximately 35 cookies. Enjoy baking!
This cookie is simply delicious! I flattened them as you suggested, Not one complaint and I plan on making these cookies every Christmas. Thank you for sharing!
These are lovely! Mine turned out a little taller and rounder then yours but they have a really nice light taste and texture to them. Thank you for sharing! I’m looking forward to sharing them with the family.
Glad you enjoy them as much as I do! They are a keeper!
on your italian christmas cookies how do you get the to bake flat mine were dome sharp did you flatten before baking
Give the tops a gentle pat flat with a spatula once they are out of the oven and still warm.
I’m so sorry you didn’t like them!
You know what I love about cookies with a bunch of sprinkles? That little crunch from when you bite them. These looks so pretty!
If you ask me, these have exactly the right amount of sprinkles!
These look just like my grannie’s sugar cookies! They look so fun – kids would love these ! Saved for next year’s Christmas season!
Your cookies are so pretty and festive! They look perfectly soft…wish I had one right now 😀
These look delicious and colorful for the holidays! So the Italian Christmas cookies are just a bit thicker than typical sugar cookies?
Yes they are.
I just love Italian cookies and these look and sound incredible! So pretty and perfect for the holiday season! Love how colorful they are! 🙂
What a festive cookie for the holidays! These are so fun, I love the bright colors of the nonpariels. This will be a great cookie to make with the kids.
These cookies are beautiful and not just for the holidays! I would make these any time of the year.
These look so simple, but special all at once. I like the pop of color from the funfetti sprinkles and the combination of vanilla and almond accents. Thanks for sharing!