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Italian Cookies

These classic Italian Cookies are tender, buttery, and lightly sweet with a hint of almond, perfect for holiday trays or afternoon tea.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 0.75 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2.75 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 0.5 teaspoon almond extract (for glaze)
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk (for glaze)
  • Rainbow colored nonpareil sprinkles (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar for 1 to 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Mix in the milk and almond extract until smooth.
  4. Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until fully combined.
  6. Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. Scoop the dough into balls and place on the prepared baking sheets.
  9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cookies are pale and the edges turn light golden.
  10. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  11. Whisk together the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk for the glaze until smooth.
  12. Dip the cooled cookies into the glaze and immediately sprinkle with nonpareil sprinkles.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For a thicker glaze, use less milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian Cookies, holiday cookies, almond cookies, dessert, baking