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Italian Christmas Cookies are a beloved holiday treat that bring a touch of nostalgia and warmth to the festive season. Soft, pillowy, and delicately flavored with almond, these cookies are traditionally made in Italian households during Christmas time. They’re simple enough to prepare but beautiful and festive enough to impress on any holiday dessert table. Finished with a sweet, glossy glaze and a cheerful sprinkle of nonpareils, these cookies embody the joy and celebration of the season.

The dough itself is easy to handle, yielding cookies that are moist and tender, thanks to the combination of butter, eggs, and a dash of almond extract. Once baked, they’re topped with a silky glaze and colorful sprinkles, making them as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re baking for family, preparing a cookie exchange, or simply looking to bring some holiday spirit into your kitchen, Italian Christmas Cookies are a timeless and delicious choice. Their classic flavor and charming appearance make them a standout favorite during the most wonderful time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive and fun – Bright nonpareils and a shiny glaze make these cookies a holiday showstopper.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for all bakers.
Soft and tender texture – The buttery dough creates cookies that are light and cake-like.
Delicious almond flavor – A subtle yet distinct almond extract gives them a traditional Italian touch.
Perfect for gifting – These cookies are ideal for cookie tins, holiday parties, and edible gifts.

Ingredients

For the cookies:

Unsalted butter
Eggs
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Granulated sugar
Kosher salt
Almond extract

For the glaze and topping:

Powdered sugar
Milk
Almond extract
Kosher salt
Nonpareils

Variations

Lemon twist: Swap the almond extract for lemon extract and top with yellow sprinkles for a citrusy version.
Vanilla classic: Use pure vanilla extract in place of almond for a milder flavor.
Anise lovers: For a traditional Italian variation, replace almond extract with anise extract.
Color themed: Use red and green sprinkles for a classic Christmas palette, or choose pastels for other holidays.
Chocolate glaze: Add a bit of cocoa powder to the glaze for a chocolatey version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the almond extract.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.

Step 5

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 6

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 8

To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, almond extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 9

Dip each cooled cookie top into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Immediately sprinkle with nonpareils.

Step 10

Let the glaze set completely before storing or serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture and consistency.
Do not overbake; cookies should be pale on top and just golden on the bottom.
Let cookies cool fully before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
Glaze and sprinkle just a few at a time so the sprinkles stick before the glaze dries.
Store with wax paper between layers to avoid sticking.

How to Serve

Arrange on a holiday cookie platter with other seasonal favorites.
Package in clear bags or tins with festive ribbon for gifting.
Serve alongside coffee, hot cocoa, or holiday liqueurs.
Add to a dessert table for Christmas gatherings and parties.
Include in a cookie exchange for a classic and colorful option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep them separated by layers of parchment or wax paper.

Freezing

Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing.

Reheating

These cookies don’t require reheating. Simply serve at room temperature. If desired, refresh in a 300°F oven for 3–4 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use vanilla extract instead of almond?

Yes, vanilla makes a delicious substitute if you prefer a milder flavor.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Why are my cookies dry?

Overbaking is often the cause. Bake until just set and lightly golden on the bottom.

4. How do I keep the glaze from hardening too quickly?

Work in small batches and cover the bowl with a damp towel if needed.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just ensure your mixer can handle the volume, or mix in batches.

6. What kind of milk should I use for the glaze?

Any milk works, including whole, 2%, almond, or oat milk.

7. Do the cookies freeze well with the glaze?

It’s best to freeze them unglazed and add the glaze after thawing.

8. Can I add food coloring to the glaze?

Yes! Add a few drops for festive color to match any holiday theme.

9. What’s the best way to store glazed cookies?

In a single layer or with parchment between layers in an airtight container.

10. Are these cookies overly sweet?

They’re perfectly balanced—sweet from the glaze, but not overwhelming.

Conclusion

Italian Christmas Cookies are a festive treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With their soft, cakey texture, sweet almond glaze, and joyful sprinkles, they bring holiday cheer to every bite. Whether you’re making them for family traditions, holiday parties, or edible gifts, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Easy to bake and even easier to enjoy, they’re the perfect way to celebrate the magic of Christmas through baking.