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Every holiday season my kitchen fills with memories as I bake these cherished Italian Christmas Cookies. The sweet aroma takes me back to my grandmother's kitchen where I first learned to make them. Perfectly soft buttery and dressed up with festive sprinkles they're my favorite way to spread holiday cheer.
A Cookie That Brings People Together
I love how these cookies welcome both new and experienced bakers into the kitchen. The simple ingredients and easy steps make them perfect for last minute surprises or thoughtful homemade gifts. The joy on peoples faces when they bite into these soft buttery cookies makes all the effort worthwhile.
What You'll Need
- All-Purpose Flour: My go to is 3 cups for the perfect tender texture.
- Butter: A full cup softened to room temperature makes these melt in your mouth.
- Granulated Sugar: Three quarters cup gives just the right sweetness.
- Eggs: Two large eggs make everything come together beautifully.
- Baking Powder: A tablespoon creates that lovely light texture.
- Vanilla Extract: One teaspoon though sometimes I use almond or anise for variety.
- For the Glaze: Powdered sugar milk and those festive sprinkles that make everyone smile.
Let's Make Some Magic
- First things first:
- Get everything measured and at room temperature it makes such a difference.
- Time to mix:
- Whip your butter sugar and vanilla until it's light and fluffy then add those eggs one at a time.
- Dry ingredients next:
- Mix your flour and baking powder then gradually blend it in. Keep kneading until it feels just right.
- Give it a rest:
- Wrap up your dough and let it chill for an hour it makes shaping so much easier.
- Shape with love:
- Roll into cute little balls or try making spirals both ways turn out beautifully.
- Into the oven:
- Bake until they're just barely golden on the bottom then let them rest before moving.
- The finishing touch:
- Mix up your glaze dip those cooled cookies and shower them with sprinkles. Let them set and watch them sparkle.
My Baking Secrets
Take your time getting that butter to the right softness. The chilled dough might seem like an extra step but trust me it makes shaping so much easier. Don't overwork the dough and pull them from the oven just as the edges set. Let them cool completely before adding that beautiful glaze.
Sharing the Love
These cookies stay fresh for a week in an airtight container at room temperature and they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. I love packaging them in pretty boxes with ribbons for gifts. They always bring such joy to whoever receives them.
Making Memories
These Italian Christmas cookies have become such a special part of my holiday traditions. Whether I'm baking with family sharing them at gatherings or gifting them to friends their sweet charm never fails to bring smiles and create precious moments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do I need to chill the cookie dough?
Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and shape. It also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and prevents spreading.
- → Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months without glaze. Thaw at room temperature before glazing and serving.
- → Why use room temperature butter?
Room temperature butter creates a smoother, more even dough texture. It blends better with other ingredients and results in better-textured cookies.
- → How long does the glaze take to set?
The glaze typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to dry completely. Make sure cookies are fully cooled before glazing to prevent melting.
- → How should I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
These traditional Italian Christmas cookies offer a delightful blend of soft, buttery texture and sweet vanilla glaze. Decorated with colorful sprinkles, they capture the essence of holiday baking and are perfect for sharing with family and friends.