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Italian Christmas Cookies

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Soft, buttery, and delicately flavored, these Italian Christmas Cookies are a festive treat for the holiday season. Topped with a sweet glaze and colorful sprinkles, they’re a must-have for your Christmas cookie platter!

Ingredients

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For the Cookies:

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

For the Glaze and Decoration:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 23 tablespoons milk
  • Sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Make the Dough:
    • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
    • Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Shape the Cookies:
    Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
    Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
  • Bake the Cookies:
    Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
    Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prepare the Glaze:
    In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
  • Decorate the Cookies:
    Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the glaze and immediately decorate with sprinkles.
    Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Notes

  • For a citrus twist, add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze unglazed cookies for up to 1 month; glaze and decorate after thawing.

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