Italian Christmas Cookies are a cherished holiday treat that bring a touch of Old-World charm to festive gatherings. With their soft, cake-like texture, sweet glaze, and colorful sprinkles, these cookies are not just delicious—they’re a celebration in every bite. Whether you grew up with Italian traditions or simply want to add a beautiful and tasty cookie to your Christmas table, this recipe is a must-have.
In this guide, you’ll learn the history behind Italian Christmas Cookies, the ingredients you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, expert tips for perfect cookies, and creative variations to make them your own.
A Brief History of Italian Christmas Cookies
Italian Christmas Cookies, often called “Anginetti” or “Anise Cookies”, have roots in Southern Italy, especially in regions like Sicily and Calabria. They were originally made for weddings, baptisms, and holidays, where family and friends would gather to share traditional foods.
The flavor of these cookies often comes from anise extract or lemon zest, two popular flavors in Italian baking. Their white glaze represents purity and festivity, while the colorful nonpareils or confetti sprinkles add a joyful touch—perfect for Christmas celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft & Tender – These cookies are cake-like rather than crunchy, making them melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Festive & Beautiful – With glaze and sprinkles, they brighten up any cookie platter.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – The dough can be prepared in advance, and the cookies store well.
- Customizable Flavors – Swap anise for almond, lemon, or vanilla extract to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Gifting – Package them in festive tins or bags for a homemade holiday gift.
Ingredients for Italian Christmas Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 3 dozen cookies:
For the Cookies:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Gives structure to the dough.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Creates a light, fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness without being overpowering.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – For richness and moisture.
- 4 large eggs – Adds structure and helps bind the ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon anise extract – Traditional flavor; can substitute with lemon, almond, or vanilla extract.
- ½ cup milk – Keeps the cookies moist.
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar – The base of the glaze.
- 3–4 tablespoons milk – Adjust for desired glaze consistency.
- ½ teaspoon anise extract – Optional, for extra flavor.
- Colorful sprinkles (nonpareils) – For decoration.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavoring
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the anise extract (or your chosen flavoring).
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out dough balls (about 1 inch wide) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale and soft.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and anise extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable.
Step 10: Glaze and Decorate
Dip the tops of each cooled cookie into the glaze, letting the excess drip off, then place back on the wire rack. While the glaze is still wet, add sprinkles.
Pro Tips for Perfect Italian Christmas Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures smooth mixing and even baking.
- Don’t Overbake – These cookies should be soft; remove them as soon as the bottoms turn light golden.
- Glaze When Cool – If the cookies are warm, the glaze will melt and not set properly.
- Adjust Flavor Strength – If you’re not a fan of strong anise, reduce the extract to 1–2 teaspoons.
- Store Properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations to Try
- Lemon Italian Cookies – Replace anise extract with lemon extract and add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the dough.
- Almond Cookies – Use almond extract and top with sliced almonds before baking.
- Chocolate Drizzle – Instead of glaze, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled cookies.
- Holiday Colors – Tint the glaze with red or green food coloring for an extra festive look.
Serving Suggestions
Italian Christmas Cookies are perfect for:
- Holiday Dessert Platters – Pair with biscotti, pizzelle, and gingerbread for a variety.
- Coffee & Tea Time – Their light texture pairs beautifully with espresso or tea.
- Gift Giving – Place them in decorative tins lined with parchment paper for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Room Temperature – Store glazed cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Dough – You can freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months; bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to baking time.
- Freezing Baked Cookies – Freeze baked (unglazed) cookies for up to 3 months, then thaw and glaze before serving.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx.)
- Calories: 110
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 40mg
(Values will vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)
Final Thoughts
Italian Christmas Cookies are more than just a holiday dessert—they’re a symbol of family, tradition, and celebration. With their soft, cake-like texture, sweet glaze, and colorful sprinkles, they’re sure to be a hit at your Christmas gathering.
Whether you stick to the classic anise flavor or experiment with lemon, almond, or vanilla, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and bring a taste of Italy to your holiday table this year.
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Italian Christmas Cookies: A Sweet Tradition for the Holidays
Ingredients
• 3 cups all-purpose flour • 1 cup butter, softened • 1 cup powdered sugar • 2 eggs • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 tsp almond extract • 1 tsp lemon zest • 1 tsp orange zest • 1 tsp baking powder • ½ tsp salt • ½ cup sliced almonds • ½ cup candied fruit, chopped • Colored sprinkles for decoration • Royal icing for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper
- Cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy
- Add eggs, vanilla, and almond extract
- Mix in lemon and orange zest
- Combine flour, baking powder, and salt
- Gradually add flour mixture to wet ingredients
- Fold in sliced almonds and candied fruit
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls
- Place on baking sheets 2 inches apart
- Bake 10-12 minutes until edges are golden
- Cool on baking sheets 5 minutes
- Transfer to wire racks to cool completely
- Decorate with royal icing and sprinkles
PREP TIME & NUTRITION: Prep Time: 20 mins, Cook Time: 12 mins, Total Time: 32 mins, Servings: 24, Calories: 140, Net Carbs: 18g, Fats: 8g, Protein: 2g