Italian Christmas Cookies (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
3 cups all-purpose flour.
02 -
1 cup sugar.
03 -
1 cup butter (softened).
04 -
3 large eggs.
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1 tsp vanilla extract.
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1 tsp almond extract.
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1 tbsp baking powder.
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1/2 tsp salt.
09 -
1/2 tsp grated lemon zest (optional).
10 -
2 cups powdered sugar.
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2-3 tbsp milk (or water).
12 -
1 tsp vanilla extract.
13 -
Food coloring (red, green, or any festive colors).
14 -
Sprinkles (for decoration).
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 -
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
03 -
Mix in the eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest (if using) until well combined.
04 -
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
05 -
Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
06 -
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
07 -
In a medium bowl, mix the powdered sugar with enough milk (or water) to reach your desired consistency. Divide the icing into separate bowls and add food coloring to each for festive hues.
08 -
Once the cookies are cool, dip the tops in the icing and then sprinkle with festive sprinkles. Allow the icing to set before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
These Italian Christmas Cookies are a festive holiday treat that are soft, flavorful, and beautifully decorated with icing and sprinkles.
02 -
Perfect for holiday parties or as gifts, they can be stored in an airtight container for several days.