Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies: A Family Tradition

Name: Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies: A Family Tradition
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon almond extract; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds); 1/2 cup colored sprinkles; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Food coloring (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful treat that brings families together during the holiday season. With their rich flavors and festive decorations, these cookies are a cherished tradition that will make your celebrations even sweeter.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:45:57.471Z

These Italian Christmas Cookies, known as 'Biscotti di Natale,' have been made in my family for generations. Each holiday season, we gather in the kitchen to bake and decorate these delicious treats, filling our home with the joyful scent of vanilla and citrus.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Delicate texture that melts in your mouth
Bursting with festive flavors of almond and citrus
Perfectly decorated for a beautiful holiday presentation

      

A Cherished Family Tradition

Every family has its unique traditions, and for many Italian families, making Christmas cookies is a treasured custom. These Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also serve as a way to bond with loved ones. The process of baking together, decorating the cookies, and sharing them with family and friends creates lasting memories that are passed down through generations.

As you gather around the kitchen, the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, evoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Each cookie tells a story, often associated with special moments during the holiday season. Whether it’s a family gathering, a festive party, or simply a cozy evening at home, these cookies make every occasion a little sweeter.

Festive Flavors to Savor

The combination of almond and citrus flavors in these cookies is what sets them apart. Almond extract adds a rich nuttiness, while the orange zest brightens the overall taste, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and zest. These flavors are reminiscent of traditional Italian pastries, making each bite a delightful experience.

In addition to their delicious taste, the colorful sprinkles provide a festive touch, making them visually appealing. The presentation of these cookies is just as important as their flavor, as they become a centerpiece during holiday celebrations. When you serve these cookies, you not only share a treat but also a piece of your heritage.

Perfect for Sharing

One of the best aspects of these Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies is their versatility. They are perfect for gifting to neighbors, friends, and family. You can easily package them in decorative boxes or tins, making thoughtful gifts that spread holiday cheer. Everyone appreciates a homemade treat, especially one with such a rich tradition.

Moreover, these cookies are an excellent addition to any holiday cookie platter. Their unique flavors and textures complement other festive treats, creating a delightful assortment that will impress your guests. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or attending one, bringing these cookies along guarantees smiles all around.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon almond extract
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds)
1/2 cup colored sprinkles

For the Icing

2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts along with the orange zest.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts.

Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and shape them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly and sprinkle with colored sprinkles.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Icing

In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If desired, add food coloring to make festive icing.

Decorate

Once the cookies are cool, drizzle the icing over the top and let it set before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Italian Christmas Cookies with family and friends!

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, be mindful of your ingredients. Use room temperature butter and eggs, as they mix more easily and create a better texture. It's also important to measure your flour accurately; spoon it into the measuring cup instead of scooping it directly to avoid packing it down, which can lead to dense cookies.

Another tip is to rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time. This helps ensure even baking, especially if your oven has hot spots. Keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking, as they can quickly go from perfectly golden to overbaked.

Storing Your Cookies

Once your cookies are cooled and decorated, store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. These cookies can last for up to a week at room temperature, but if you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. This prevents them from sticking together.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours. They will taste as fresh as the day you baked them! This makes it easy to prepare ahead of time for holiday gatherings or to have a sweet treat on hand whenever the craving strikes.

Customizing Your Cookies

Feel free to get creative with your Irresistible Italian Christmas Cookies! While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can customize the flavors and decorations to suit your preferences. Consider adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or other nuts to the dough for a unique twist. You could also experiment with different extracts, such as lemon or hazelnut, to create new flavor profiles.

For the icing, try using various colors and designs to match your holiday theme. Use piping bags for more intricate decorations or simply drizzle the icing for a more rustic look. The possibilities are endless, making these cookies not only a delicious treat but also a canvas for your creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookies?

Yes, these cookies freeze well. Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I use instead of nuts?

You can omit the nuts or substitute them with chocolate chips or dried fruits if you prefer.