Name: Italian Easter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons almond extract; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup powdered sugar; 3 tablespoons milk or cream; 1 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract or lemon juice as substitutes); Liquid food coloring and sprinkles for decorating

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Soft, sweet, and cheerfully decorated, Italian Easter Cookies are a traditional treat that brings a festive flair to springtime celebrations. Often passed down through generations, these cookies are tender, delicately flavored, and beautifully adorned with pastel glaze and sprinkles. They are especially popular around Easter but are so delightful, they deserve to be enjoyed year-round. Known in Italian-American households by various names like “Easter knots” or “Italian egg cookies,” these little confections are the perfect combination of old-world charm and joyful color.

The dough is simple yet rich, combining butter, sugar, vanilla, and almond extracts for a subtly fragrant bite. After baking, the cookies are dipped in a silky glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a hint of flavoring—then finished with colorful sprinkles that bring a sense of tradition and celebration. Their slightly crisp exterior gives way to a soft, cakey interior, making them irresistible with a cup of coffee or served as part of a dessert spread. Whether you’re baking them with kids, gifting them in cookie boxes, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are an easy way to share a little sweetness and heritage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive and Fun – Colorful glaze and sprinkles make these cookies perfect for holidays and celebrations.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
Soft and Cakey – The texture is tender and moist, like a soft sugar cookie or cake bite.
Customizable Flavors – Choose almond, vanilla, or lemon to suit your taste.
Great for Sharing – These cookies keep well and are ideal for gift baskets or cookie trays.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter
Vanilla extract
Almond extract
Eggs

For the Glaze:

Powdered sugar
Milk or cream
Almond extract (or substitute with vanilla or lemon juice)
Liquid food coloring
Sprinkles for decoration

Variations

Flavor Twist: Try lemon extract for a citrusy flavor or anise for a more traditional Italian touch.
Shape Variety: Roll the dough into knots, twists, or rounds depending on tradition or preference.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Icing Instead of Glaze: Use royal icing for a firmer, shinier finish.
Nut-Free: Skip almond extract and stick with vanilla or citrus.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

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

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

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

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out small portions and roll them into ropes or balls. Twist into knots or desired shapes and place on the baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Step 8: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Divide and tint with food coloring if desired.

Step 9: Glaze and Decorate

Dip cooled cookies into the glaze and top immediately with sprinkles. Let the glaze set before serving or storing.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use room temperature eggs and butter for a smoother dough.
Don’t overbake—cookies should be just lightly golden on the bottom.
Dip cookies in glaze while slightly warm for better absorption.
Let the glaze set completely before storing or stacking.
Use gel food coloring for more vibrant glaze colors.

How to Serve

Serve Italian Easter Cookies as part of a holiday dessert table, alongside tea or espresso, or package them in festive tins or boxes for gifting. They pair beautifully with coffee and make a charming addition to brunch or church gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep layers separated with parchment paper.

Freezing

Freeze baked, unglazed cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze when ready to serve.

Reheating

No reheating is necessary. Simply allow frozen cookies to come to room temperature before glazing and serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

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

2. Can I use different extracts?

Absolutely—vanilla, almond, lemon, or anise all work well.

3. Why is my dough too sticky?

Add a small amount of flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s workable but still soft.

4. Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, though the glaze adds flavor and helps the sprinkles stick.

5. How do I prevent the glaze from smudging?

Let it dry completely—usually about an hour—before stacking or packing.

6. Do these cookies spread while baking?

Slightly. Chill the shaped dough before baking if you want them to hold their shape better.

7. Can kids help with decorating?

Definitely! It’s a fun, hands-on activity for kids to help with glazing and adding sprinkles.

8. How long do they stay fresh?

They’re best within 3–5 days but can last longer if stored properly.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it scales up well—perfect for big gatherings or gift boxes.

10. Are they supposed to be soft or crunchy?

They’re traditionally soft and cakey, not crisp like a biscotti.

Conclusion

Italian Easter Cookies are a timeless treat that adds charm, flavor, and festive joy to any celebration. With their tender texture, delicate flavor, and playful decorations, they offer a perfect balance of tradition and sweetness. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re a joyful project for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re honoring family traditions or starting new ones, these cookies are a beautiful way to celebrate togetherness and the arrival of spring.