Description
Delicate, nutty, and perfectly festive, these Italian Christmas Cookies are soft on the inside, lightly crisped on the outside, and finished with a sweet glaze or dusting of powdered sugar. We’ve doubled the batch and added a few creative twists to make these holiday classics extra memorable.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup almond flour (adds tender texture and subtle nuttiness)
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp almond extract
1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or toasted almonds)
1 cup mini chocolate chips (optional but delightful)
Optional twist: Zest of 1 orange or lemon for a citrusy brightness
Optional twist: ½ tsp ground cardamom or cinnamon for warmth
For the Decoration:
2 cups powdered sugar
4 tbsp milk or water (adjust for consistency)
Food coloring (optional)
Sprinkles or chopped nuts for topping
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting instead of glaze
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk flours, baking powder, salt, and spices if using.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs, extracts, and citrus zest.
Gradually mix in dry ingredients until dough forms. Fold in nuts and chocolate chips.
Scoop dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets. Flatten slightly if preferred.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on wire rack.
For glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk or water until smooth. Add food coloring if desired. Dip or drizzle cooled cookies and top with sprinkles or nuts.
Let glaze set before storing.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 9g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 16g