Italian Christmas Cookies

These Italian Christmas Cookies are a traditional treat that combines rich flavors and a festive touch. With a hint of lemon zest and a soft, chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations. Whether they’re decorated with a simple glaze or festive sprinkles, they’re sure to delight everyone at your holiday table!

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp milk (or more, if needed)

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
   • In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
3. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
   • If the dough feels too stiff, add the milk one tablespoon at a time until the dough reaches a soft, pliable consistency.
4. Shape the Cookies:
   • Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
   • For a traditional look, you can slightly flatten the balls with your fingers or the bottom of a glass.
   • Leave about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.
5. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
   • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Glaze (optional):
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more lemon juice until it reaches a smooth, drizzly consistency.
7. Glaze the Cookies (optional):
   • Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top using a spoon or a small piping bag.
   • Sprinkle with festive sprinkles or colorful sugar for extra holiday cheer.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Allow the glaze to set before serving. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Tips for Success:

• Make it Your Own: Feel free to experiment with other flavors such as almond or orange extract.
• Decorating: For a more colorful look, use colored sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the glaze.
• Crispier Texture: For a crispier cookie, bake for an additional 1–2 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
• Freezing Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough before baking. Shape the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store them in an airtight container and bake as needed.

These Italian Christmas Cookies are the perfect balance of soft and sweet, with a zesty lemon finish that makes them stand out among other holiday cookies. Whether served at a holiday gathering or gifted to friends and family, they’ll definitely bring festive joy to all who taste them!