Italian Christmas Cookies

There’s something undeniably special about Italian Christmas Cookies. Their cake-like texture, combined with a subtle hint of anise and a sweet sugar glaze, makes them utterly irresistible. While they are a staple in many Italian households, they weren’t part of my family tradition. My first encounter with these delightful cookies was during a visit to my aunt’s house many years ago. Her neighbor generously shared a dish with us, and it was love at first bite.

These cookies come in various shapes—knots, S shapes, twists, and balls—and you can shape them however you like. Personally, I prefer rolling them into small balls. Although I’ve attempted to make the knot shapes, I’ve come to accept that my knot-making skills leave much to be desired. Instead, I opt for the simpler method of rolling them into balls and gently pressing them down with the bottom of a glass.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Italian Christmas Cookies are incredibly easy to make and versatile in shape. The hint of anise flavor is perfectly balanced, but if anise isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with almond flavoring for an equally delightful taste. Plus, the colorful sprinkles add a festive touch that’s hard to resist!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Sifter
• Baking sheets
• Wire rack
• Wax paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Glass (for pressing cookies)

Ingredients

• 4 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 tsp. vanilla
• 3 1/2 cups flour
• 4 tsp. baking powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sift the dry ingredients together.
2. Cream the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla.
4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, kneading the dough and adding more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
5. Pinch off a portion of dough, roll it into a log shape, and then twirl it into your desired shape. Place on a greased cookie sheet.
6. Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
7. For the icing, combine 2 cups of sifted confectioner’s sugar, 2 tsp. vanilla, and 6 tsp. water. Stir until creamy.
8. Dip the cooled cookies into the icing and sprinkle with decorations. Allow them to set on a wire rack with wax paper underneath to catch any drips.

Tips for Success

• To prevent the dough from sticking, dip the bottom of the glass in powdered sugar before pressing the cookies.
• Ensure cookies are completely cooled before dipping in icing to prevent melting.

Additional Tips and Variations

If anise isn’t your preferred flavor, try substituting it with almond extract for a different, yet equally delicious, twist. You can also experiment with different shapes or add food coloring to the icing for a more festive appearance.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 120 | Carbs: 18g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 5g | Sugar: 8g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare them a few days in advance. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

What if I don’t have anise extract? You can use almond extract or even vanilla for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

As the holiday season approaches, these Italian Christmas Cookies are a delightful treat that you should definitely try. They’re easy to make, delicious, and sure to impress your family and friends. Give them a try and let me know how they turn out. I’d love to hear about your experiences and any creative twists you might have added!