The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a plate full of sweet treats? For many of us, baking cookies during the holidays is a beloved tradition that brings joy and cheer to our loved ones. And when it comes to Christmas cookies, Italy has some truly delicious offerings to share. In this article, we’ll be counting down 20 scrumptious Italian Christmas cookie recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From traditional pizzelle cookies to decadent chocolate espresso treats, these sweet and savory bites are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Traditional Italian Pizzelle Cookies
These crispy and delicate cookies are a classic Italian treat, perfect for special occasions or as a sweet snack. With their distinctive waffle-like texture and anise flavor, pizzelle are a beloved tradition in many Italian households.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons anise extract
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat a pizzelle iron or a non-stick skillet to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, egg, anise extract, and vegetable oil.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour about 1 tablespoon of batter onto the preheated iron or skillet.
6. Cook for 30-45 seconds, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-45 seconds per cookie
Soft and Chewy Italian Ricotta Cookies
These classic Italian cookies are a staple of any holiday gathering, with their tender texture and delicate flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of these sweet treats to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 12 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, ricotta cheese, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the melted butter and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Italian Anise Biscotti
Experience the authentic taste of Italy with these crunchy, sweet, and aromatic biscotti infused with anise flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon anise extract
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh anise leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until smooth. Add anise extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until just combined.
5. Transfer dough to a floured surface; shape into 2 logs, about 12 inches long and 1 inch thick.
6. Place logs on prepared baking sheet; bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven; let cool for 10 minutes. Slice each log into 1/2-inch thick slices.
8. Return biscotti to the baking sheet; bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Festive Italian Rainbow Cookies
These vibrant cookies are a classic Italian dessert perfect for the holiday season. With their layered, swirly design and sweet almond flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons almond extract
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Add almond extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until combined.
5. Divide dough into 6 equal parts. Color each portion with a different hue of food coloring.
6. Roll out each colored dough on parchment paper to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness. Assemble cookies by layering and swirling the colors.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Crunchy Italian Almond Cantucci
Experience the delightful combination of crunchy almonds and sweet biscotti with this classic Italian recipe. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these cantucci are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk egg and milk until smooth. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in sliced almonds and granulated sugar.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Decadent Italian Chocolate Espresso Cookies
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with these indulgent cookies that combine the boldness of espresso, the creaminess of chocolate, and the crunch of hazelnuts. Perfect for a special treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and brown sugar in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips, hazelnuts, and espresso powder.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Sweet Italian Lemon Drop Cookies
Sweet Italian Lemon Drop Cookies: A tangy and sweet treat that combines the brightness of lemon zest with the richness of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and lemon juice until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Fold in lemon zest and powdered sugar.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fluffy Italian Struffoli Honey Balls
These bite-sized treats are a classic Italian dessert, perfect for snacking or as a sweet addition to your holiday gatherings. Made with honey, flour, and eggs, these fluffy struffoli honey balls are easy to make and deliciously addictive.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and yeast.
2. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sugar and whisk until combined.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
6. Fry the struffoli in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Drain and cool on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rich Italian Amaretti Cookies
A classic Italian cookie recipe that yields a delicate, crumbly, and intensely almond-flavored treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup finely ground almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg white
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, almonds, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg white until frothy. Add almond extract and granulated sugar; beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a paper towel-lined plate.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spiced Italian Mostaccioli Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warm spices of Italy, perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Italian Butter Cookies
A classic cookie recipe that requires only a few ingredients and minimal effort, these buttery treats are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
5. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crumbly Italian Hazelnut Baci di Dama
These bite-sized treats are a classic Italian dessert that combines the richness of hazelnuts with the sweetness of chocolate. Crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside, they’re perfect for snacking or serving as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup hazelnuts
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon coffee liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, grind hazelnuts until coarsely chopped.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until smooth. Add ground hazelnuts and mix until well combined.
4. Roll out the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch/2.5 cm in diameter).
5. Place balls onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Dip baked hazelnut balls into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Golden Italian Pine Nut Cookies
A classic Italian cookie recipe with a twist – golden brown and crunchy on the outside, chewy and nutty on the inside. These cookies are perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) pine nuts
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and pine nuts.
3. Add baking powder, salt, egg, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Zesty Italian Orange Ricotta Cookies
These cookies combine the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the brightness of citrus and the warmth of spices, resulting in a unique flavor profile that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, orange zest, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, orange juice, and egg until smooth.
4. Add softened butter to the ricotta mixture and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Delicate Italian Anginetti Cookies
These classic Italian cookies are renowned for their delicate texture and sweet flavor. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year, these anginetti cookies will become a favorite in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chewy Italian Fig Cookies (Cucidati)
These classic Italian cookies are a staple during the holiday season, and with this recipe, you can make them at home. The combination of sweet figs, crunchy nuts, and soft cookie dough is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped dried figs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Stir in flour mixture, then figs and walnuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Festive Italian Torrone Cookies
Add a touch of Italy to your holiday baking with these crunchy, nutty, and deliciously flavorful cookies. Perfect for gift-giving or snacking, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) chopped hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup (50g) chopped pistachios
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Torrone or Italian nougat, crumbled (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in hazelnuts, pistachios, and crumbled torrone.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crunchy Italian Sesame Seed Cookies
Experience the perfect blend of crunchy texture and flavorful essence with these scrumptious Italian sesame seed cookies. Perfect for a quick snack or as a gift, these cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– Colored sprinkles or chopped hazelnuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and lemon juice.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until combined.
5. Stir in sesame seeds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before serving. Garnish with colored sprinkles or chopped hazelnuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Soft Italian Vanilla Pignoli Cookies
Soft Italian Vanilla Pignoli Cookies Recipe
These soft and chewy cookies are a classic Italian treat, perfect for any occasion. With the addition of pine nuts and vanilla extract, these cookies offer a rich and indulgent flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (pignoli)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Fold in pine nuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Classic Italian Chocolate Chip Panettone Cookies
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with these soft, chewy cookies infused with the iconic panettone spices and dark chocolate chips. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup candied citron, finely chopped (optional)
– Panettone spice blend (available at Italian markets or online)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips, candied citron (if using), and panettone spice blend.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to sweeten your holiday season with these 20 delicious Italian Christmas cookie recipes! From traditional favorites like pizzelle and biscotti, to creative twists like rainbow cookies and chocolate espresso treats, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for soft and chewy textures or crunchy and nutty flavors, these Italian-inspired cookies are sure to become new holiday traditions. So go ahead, get baking, and make your Christmas cookie exchange the talk of the town!
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