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- Prepare the Cookie Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon juice.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to help bring it together.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass to form small discs. You can also shape the dough into crescent moons, twists, or rings for a more traditional look.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake—they should be soft and slightly pale.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and enough milk to create a smooth, pourable glaze.
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, dip the tops of the cookies into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Immediately sprinkle colorful sprinkles or nonpareils on top of the glaze for a festive touch.
Pro Tips:
- Flavor Variations: You can switch up the citrus by using orange zest or extract for a different twist on the traditional lemon flavor.
- Shaping the Cookies: If you want to make classic Italian-style cookies, you can shape the dough into small rings, twists, or even figure-eight shapes.
- Decorating: For an extra festive touch, you can drizzle the glaze in different colors or use holiday-themed sprinkles like red and green for a Christmas vibe.
These Italian Christmas Cookies are sure to be a hit this holiday season with their bright citrus flavor and festive appearance. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and the perfect way to share a little holiday joy with family and friends. Do you prefer cookies with a more fruity or spiced twist? 🍋🎄
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