Looking for a festive treat to brighten up your holiday season? These soft and tender Italian Christmas Cookies, with a hint of almond flavor and topped with a sweet glaze, are perfect for any cookie tray!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract)
– 1/4 cup milk
For the Glaze:
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 3 tablespoons milk (more if needed)
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– Sprinkles for decoration
Directions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Add Eggs and Flavoring**:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the almond extract.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until a soft dough forms.
6. **Shape the Cookies**:
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
7. **Bake**:
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The cookies should remain pale on top. Let them cool on wire racks.
8. **Prepare the Glaze**:
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk.
9. **Glaze and Decorate**:
Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze, then sprinkle with festive holiday sprinkles.
10. **Serve**:
Allow the glaze to set before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Prep Time : 15 minutes
Cooking Time : 12 minutes
Total Time : 27 minutes
Calories : 120 kcal per cookie
Servings: 24 cookies