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Italian Christmas Cookies

Italian Christmas Cookies
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Italian Christmas Cookies are tender, flavorful cookies enriched with citrus zest, nuts, and warm extracts. Rooted in rich holiday traditions and simple ingredients, these cookies celebrate family and festivity with melt-in-your-mouth textures and charming shapes. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying alongside coffee or mulled wine, they bring an authentic Italian holiday spirit to your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (or powdered sugar as preferred)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs

Nuts and Flavorings

  • 1 cup chopped almonds or walnuts (toasted lightly)
  • Zest of 1 lemon or orange (freshly grated)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract

Finishing Touch

  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Optional: Melted dark or white chocolate for drizzle

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Cream softened butter and sugar together until fluffy using a hand or stand mixer. Gradually add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla or almond extract along with freshly grated citrus zest. Slowly incorporate the flour and chopped toasted nuts, mixing until a smooth, soft dough forms.
  2. Shape Your Cookies: Divide the dough into small balls, rolling them gently between your palms to create even, smooth shapes. Optionally, roll some in powdered sugar before placing them on baking trays for a snowy effect. Classic shapes include rounds or crescents.
  3. Chill the Dough: Arrange the shaped cookies on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them keep their shape and improve texture.
  4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden, taking care not to over-bake to retain tenderness inside.
  5. Add the Final Touch: Once cooled, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for a festive finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and smooth dough consistency.
  • Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
  • Chill dough thoroughly before baking to maintain shape and enhance flavors.
  • Lightly toast nuts to boost flavor without overpowering the cookies.
  • Use freshly grated citrus zest for the best aroma and brightness.
  • Test bake one cookie first to adjust baking time or temperature as needed for your oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian Christmas cookies, holiday cookies, festive treats, citrus zest cookies, nut cookies, traditional Italian dessert, Christmas baking

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/italian-christmas-cookies/