Italian Easter Cookies

Quick Benefits

Italian Easter Cookies are soft, buttery, and lightly sweetened cookies that are perfect for the Easter season. These delightful treats feature a tender, cake-like texture and are topped with a sweet, vanilla-almond glaze and festive sprinkles. They are simple to make, visually appealing, and great for sharing with family and friends during the holidays.

Essential Ingredients

To make these delicious Italian Easter cookies, you’ll need:

Cookie Dough:

• White Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• Butter: Provides richness and a tender texture.
• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients and add moisture.
• Milk: Contributes to the soft, cake-like texture.
• Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture and prevents the cookies from drying out.
• Vanilla & Almond Extracts: Enhance the flavor with a sweet and nutty aroma.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cookies.
• Baking Powder: Ensures the cookies rise properly.

Icing:

• Confectioners’ Sugar: The key to a smooth, sweet glaze.
• Butter: Adds creaminess to the icing.
• Vanilla & Almond Extracts: Complement the cookie flavors.
• Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the icing.
• Food Coloring (Optional): Adds a festive touch.
• Candy Sprinkles (Optional): Provides decoration and crunch.

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease cookie sheets.
2. Make the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until smooth.
   • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Stir in milk, oil, vanilla, and almond extract.
   • Combine flour and baking powder, then mix into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
3. Shape the Cookies:
   • Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then into 5-inch ropes.
   • Tie into a loose knot and place 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.
4. Bake:
   • Bake for 5 minutes on the bottom rack, then transfer to the top rack for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.
   • Cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Prepare the Icing:
   • Beat confectioners’ sugar, butter, vanilla, and almond extract until smooth.
   • Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, to reach the desired consistency.
   • Stir in food coloring if using.

1. Decorate:
   • Dip the cooled cookies upside down into the icing.
   • Sprinkle with candy sprinkles and let set.

Health Benefits

• Source of Energy: Carbohydrates provide quick energy for celebrations.
• Protein & Calcium: Eggs and milk contribute to protein and calcium intake.
• Customizable Sweetness: Can be made with reduced sugar or alternative sweeteners.
• Kid-Friendly & Fun: A great baking activity for children.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful pairing.
• Arrange on an Easter dessert platter with other festive treats.
• Gift-wrap in decorative boxes or bags for holiday presents.
• Enjoy alongside fruit and whipped cream for a fresh twist.

Creative Variations

• Lemon Twist: Add lemon zest to the dough and icing for a citrusy flavor.
• Chocolate-Dipped: Half-dip cookies in melted chocolate instead of icing.
• Nut-Free Version: Skip almond extract for a plain vanilla version.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a wheat-free option.
• Pastel Icing: Use different food colors to match the Easter theme.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze un-iced cookies for up to 3 months; thaw and ice before serving.

Pro Tips

• Use Softened Butter: Ensures a smooth, even dough consistency.
• Chill the Dough: If too sticky, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before shaping.
• Apply Icing While Warm: It spreads easier and sets beautifully.
• Customize Shapes: Experiment with different traditional Italian Easter cookie designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cookies ahead and store them un-iced. Ice them just before serving for the best texture.

Can I use a different extract instead of almond?

Absolutely! Lemon, anise, or even orange extract work well as substitutes.

What if I don’t have food coloring?

Food coloring is optional. The icing is delicious and beautiful even without it.

How do I prevent the cookies from drying out?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Yes! Kids can assist with rolling, shaping, icing, and decorating.

Enjoy these Italian Easter Cookies, a delightful holiday treat perfect for Easter gatherings and celebrations!

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