Print

Soft Italian Christmas Cookies

A pile of star-shaped Italian Christmas cookies, generously iced with white glaze and decorated with red and green sprinkles.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make soft, tender Italian Christmas cookies with a simple glaze and festive sprinkles. These easy-to-make cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon anise extract (optional)
  • For the Glaze:
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Assorted sprinkles

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and anise extract (if using).
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  5. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
  8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
  9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
  11. Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze and immediately cover with sprinkles. Let the glaze set before storing.

Notes

  • For best results, use good quality butter.
  • If you don’t have anise extract, you can omit it or use almond extract for a different flavor.
  • These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Glaze and decorate after thawing.

Nutrition

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