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Italian Christmas Cookies

Soft, cake-like cookies with a sweet vanilla or anise glaze and colorful sprinkles, perfect for holiday gifting and enjoying with coffee.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Christmas, Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Dough Ingredients
  • 2 large large eggs at room temperature Use room temperature for better mixing.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Softened for easier blending.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar Add air for tender cookies.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or 1 teaspoon anise extract Anise gives a traditional flavor.
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons milk Add as needed for dough consistency.
Glaze Ingredients
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons milk Start with less for desired consistency.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or a few drops of anise extract
  • Holiday sprinkles (nonpareils or jimmies) For decoration.

Method
 

Make the Dough
  1. Beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add eggs one at a time, beating until creamy.
  3. Mix in vanilla or anise extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Add dry ingredients to wet in two additions, mixing on low until combined.
  6. If the dough seems dry or crumbly, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time.
  7. Chill the dough for 20 to 30 minutes.
  8. Scoop tablespoon portions and roll into smooth balls.
  9. For a twist shape, roll a small rope and twist the ends together.
Bake, Cool, and Glaze
  1. Bake at 350°F for 9 to 12 minutes until set but not brown.
  2. Cool on the sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
  3. Make the glaze by whisking powdered sugar with milk and flavoring.
  4. Dip the tops of cooled cookies into the glaze, adding sprinkles while wet.
  5. Let the glaze set until firm.

Notes

Store in an airtight tin at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unglazed cookies and glaze before serving.