Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies: A Family Tradition

Name: Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies: A Family Tradition
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:19:20.281Z

These Italian Christmas cookies are not just a treat; they are a cherished family tradition passed down through generations. Each bite brings a taste of nostalgia and the warmth of holiday celebrations.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicate texture that melts in your mouth
Bursting with festive flavors of almond and citrus
Perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter

      

The Tradition of Italian Christmas Cookies

Italian Christmas cookies, or 'biscotti di Natale,' are a cherished part of holiday celebrations in many Italian families. Passed down through generations, these cookies symbolize family unity and the joy of sharing. Each family may have its own unique recipe, reflecting regional variations and personal touches. Making these cookies together can bring loved ones closer, creating lasting memories that are as sweet as the treats themselves.

Often enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa, these cookies come in various shapes and flavors, making them perfect for festive gatherings. The delicate texture and rich flavors make them a delightful treat for both kids and adults alike. As you bake these cookies, the aroma of almond and citrus will fill your home, instantly creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the season.

Perfect for Your Holiday Cookie Platter

These Italian Christmas cookies are not just delicious; they also add a beautiful touch to your holiday cookie platter. Their elegant appearance and vibrant decorations make them a standout choice among traditional holiday treats. When arranged alongside other festive cookies, they create a stunning visual display that will impress your guests and elevate your holiday festivities.

In addition to their visual appeal, these cookies are versatile. They can be customized with various toppings, including colored sugar or sprinkles, allowing you to match them with your holiday theme. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or gifting them to friends and family, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

Storage and Enjoyment

Once baked and decorated, it's important to store your Italian Christmas cookies properly to maintain their freshness. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them. Layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they will stay delicious for up to three months.

These cookies are delightful on their own but also pair well with various beverages. Enjoy them with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or even a glass of sweet dessert wine. Their unique flavors and textures make them a versatile treat that can complement any holiday spread.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Icing

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration

Gather all ingredients to ensure a smooth baking process.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture until well combined.

Shape and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Prepare the Icing

While the cookies are cooling, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth.

Decorate

Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the icing over the tops and sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles.

Allow the icing to set before serving or storing the cookies.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Italian Christmas cookies, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with sugar. This step is crucial for achieving the light, fluffy texture that makes these cookies irresistible. Additionally, measure your flour accurately; too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for the most accurate measurement.

When shaping the cookies, use a cookie scoop or two spoons to ensure uniform sizes. This will help them bake evenly, resulting in a consistent texture and appearance. If you prefer a more decorative touch, consider using cookie cutters for festive shapes, making them even more fun for holiday celebrations.

Customizing Your Cookies

Feel free to get creative with your Italian Christmas cookies! While this recipe highlights almond and citrus flavors, you can experiment with other extracts like lemon or coconut to create a unique twist. Adding chopped nuts or dried fruits can also enhance the texture and flavor profile, making each batch a delightful surprise.

For a chocolate lover's version, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the icing or incorporating cocoa powder into the dough. The possibilities are endless, and customizing your cookies can make this family tradition even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, these cookies store well in an airtight container for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when ready.

→ What can I use instead of almond extract?

You can substitute with additional vanilla extract or use hazelnut extract for a different flavor.

→ Can I add nuts to the cookie recipe?

Yes, chopped almonds or walnuts can be mixed into the dough for added texture.