If you have a soft spot for charming, tender treats that bring a comforting slice of tradition to every bite, you are going to adore this Italian Cookies Recipe. These delightful cookies boast a tender crumb with a light, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfectly complemented by a sweet, glossy icing that cracks just a bit on top. The subtle hint of almond or anise in the dough carries the taste straight to an Italian kitchen where family gatherings and warm memories reign. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or just craving a simple homemade pleasure, this Italian Cookies Recipe is absolutely worth every moment spent in the kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Italian Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and appearance, and you probably already have most of them at hand in your pantry. Let’s go through these essentials so you know exactly why they’re here.
- Vegetable shortening: Melted and cooled to create a tender, soft crumb without overwhelming the flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Provides just the right amount of sweetness and helps tenderize the dough.
- Almond or anise extract: Adds a fragrant, authentic note that gives these cookies their signature Italian charm.
- Eggs: Bind the dough while adding richness and structure.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives the cookies their form and delicate texture.
- Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise lightly for a soft, airy bite.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: Used in the icing for a smooth, glossy finish.
- Milk: Adjusted carefully to create the perfect icing consistency.
- Nonpareils or sprinkles: Fun decorations that add color and a lovely crunch.
How to Make Italian Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Get a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper — this little step prevents sticking and ensures a smooth release for your beautiful cookies.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Pour the melted, cooled vegetable shortening into a large mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar and your chosen extract, whether almond or anise, then beat them together with an electric mixer until well combined. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to keep everything perfectly emulsified and fluffy.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This keeps the leavening evenly distributed and ensures a consistent rise in your cookies.
Step 4: Bring the Dough Together
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to your wet ingredients. Use the mixer on a low speed to blend everything into a soft dough. It should come together easily and be just the right consistency for shaping.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough into balls roughly between 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons each. Place them neatly on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow for gentle spreading while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Start checking at 8 minutes — the tops will crack slightly but stay pale, while the bottoms will develop a faint golden hue. Once done, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before adding your icing and decorations.
Step 7: Make the Icing
In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar with a splash of your preferred almond or anise extract, and start stirring in 2 tablespoons of milk. Add more milk a little at a time until the icing is thin enough to drip gently from a spoon but not so watery that it runs off the cookie too quickly. This balance gives that iconic shiny glaze while setting beautifully.
Step 8: Ice and Decorate
Once your cookies have cooled, dip each one top-down into the icing, letting any excess drip off. Place back on the wire rack and immediately sprinkle with your chosen nonpareils or colorful sprinkles. Let them rest at room temperature until the icing sets, sealing in that irresistible sweet finish.
How to Serve Italian Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies shine with minimalist elegance, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a scattering of finely chopped nuts can add a lovely textural contrast. The classic nonpareils or sprinkles provide festive flair, transforming these humble cookies into eye-catching treats perfect for holidays or gatherings.
Side Dishes
Pair your Italian Cookies with a warm cup of espresso or a gently brewed herbal tea to complement their subtle almond or anise notes. For a heartier dessert course, a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of sweetened mascarpone makes an irresistible duo that transports you straight to an Italian afternoon café.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies in a decorative tin or on a beautiful platter lined with parchment for a charming gift or party centerpiece. To elevate the presentation, stack them in alternating layers with sheets of wax paper to keep them fresh and visually inviting. They’re a perfect homemade favor or a sweet surprise tucked into a picnic basket.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the icing has completely set, store your Italian Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored, they will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, making them an easy treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to extend their lifespan, freeze the uniced cookie dough balls wrapped tightly in plastic foil and placed inside a freezer-safe bag. When ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake fresh. Finished iced cookies generally do not freeze well because the glaze can crack or become sticky upon thawing.
Reheating
These cookies are wonderful at room temperature or slightly warmed. If you prefer a warm cookie, pop one in the microwave for about 7 to 10 seconds, but be careful not to melt the icing. Enjoying them gently warmed can really bring out their tender texture and aroma.
FAQs
Can I substitute vegetable shortening with butter?
Yes, butter can be used; however, shortening helps keep the cookies tender and light. Using butter may result in a slightly denser texture and more golden coloring but will still be delicious!
What if I don’t have almond or anise extract?
You can try vanilla extract as a more neutral option, but the classic flavor from almond or anise really defines this Italian Cookies Recipe. Using these extracts will give you the authentic taste you’re aiming for.
Why are my cookies cracking on top?
The cracking is a good sign and typical for this recipe. It shows the cookie surface is drying while the inside stays soft and tender. Don’t worry—it’s expected and adds to the cookie’s charm.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend might work, but you may need to experiment with binding agents like xanthan gum and adjust baking times. The texture might vary from the original, but it’s worth trying for gluten-sensitive friends!
How thick should the icing be for dipping?
The icing should be thin enough to drip off a spoon without clumping or running off the cookie too quickly. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar until you get that perfect pourable consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Cookies Recipe is a joyous introduction to the warmth and simplicity of Italian home baking. It’s a chance to fill your kitchen with the heavenly scent of almond or anise and create cookies that feel both nostalgic and special. Give yourself the gift of this easy, rewarding baking experience—you’ll find these cookies effortlessly become a beloved staple in your rotation, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Print
Italian Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These classic Italian Cookies offer a delightful almond or anise flavor with a soft, crumbly texture. Lightly sweetened and topped with a simple powdered sugar icing and festive sprinkles, they’re perfect for celebrations or everyday treats. The recipe yields about 24 cookies with a quick prep and baking time.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- ½ cup vegetable shortening (melted and cooled)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract or anise extract (or to taste)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Icing and Decoration
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract or anise extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk (as needed)
- Nonpareils or sprinkles (for decorating)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Place the melted and cooled vegetable shortening into a large mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar and your choice of almond or anise extract. Using an electric mixer, blend these together thoroughly. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, beating continuously until a soft dough forms. The dough should be manageable for scooping but still soft.
- Shape Cookies: Use a small cookie scoop to portion the dough into balls roughly 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons in size. Place the dough balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Start checking at 8 minutes; the tops should crack but remain light in color, and the bottoms should be golden brown. Remove from the oven and transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before icing.
- Prepare Icing: In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, ¼ teaspoon almond or anise extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Stir well until smooth. Add additional milk ¼ teaspoon at a time to reach an icing consistency that is thin enough to drizzle but not too runny.
- Ice and Decorate: Once the cookies have cooled, dip the top of each cookie into the prepared icing. Shake off any excess icing and place the cookies back onto the wire rack. Immediately sprinkle with nonpareils or sprinkles. Let the icing set at room temperature before serving or storing.
Notes
- You can substitute almond extract with anise extract depending on your flavor preference.
- Make sure the shortening is melted and cooled before mixing to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.
- Check the cookies early in the baking time to prevent over-baking, as they should remain light-colored on top.
- For firmer icing, use less milk; for thinner icing, add milk gradually.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
