Italian Christmas Cookies are a favorite on every holiday dessert tray! They are buttery, flavorful little bites covered in an irresistible glaze. They only require a few ingredients and an entire batch is made in less than an hour!
INGREDIENTS
COOKIES
-3/4 salted butter
-1/2 c powdered sugar
-1/2 c sugar
-3 eggs
-1 tsp vanilla extract
-3 c flour
-2 tsp baking powder
-1 tsp salt
-sprinkles
GLAZE
-4 tbsp milk
-2 c powdered sugar
STEP 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
STEP 2
Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer), combine the butter, sugars, eggs and vanilla.
STEP 3
Beat on medium speed until creamy and free of lumps.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt. Mix well. Gradually add to the butter mixture and beat on medium speed until just combined.
STEP 4
Place tablespoon-size chunks of batter 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
STEP 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are very lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
STEP 6
Using a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer), add powdered sugar and milk. Mix on medium speed until glaze is free of lumps.
STEP 7
Dunk the tops of the cookies into the glaze and place back on baking sheets or on a serving plate. Top with sprinkles, if desired.
STEP 8
If you desire that anise flavoring, add 1/2 teaspoon anise extract along with the rest of the wet ingredients.
RECIPE NOTE
These cookies cook quickly! My oven produces the perfect cookie in just 8 minutes. If you see a very slightly golden tint around the bottom edge of the cookies, pull them out!