Easter is a time of renewal, celebration, and, of course, delicious food. Among the myriad of treats that mark this festive season, Italian Easter Cookies hold a special place. These cookies, with their soft, buttery texture and eye-catching, pastel-colored icing, are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your Easter celebrations, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookies:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Frosting:
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- Food coloring and sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Directions to Sweet Perfection:
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure easy removal of the cookies after baking.
- Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and eggs until well combined. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts along with the baking powder. Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
- Shape and Bake: Scoop out one-inch balls of dough, roll them in your hands to smooth, and place them on the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should remain light in color. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Frosting Magic: For the frosting, whisk together the milk, melted butter, extracts, and powdered sugar until smooth. If desired, divide the frosting among different bowls and tint each with food coloring. Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the frosting, then place them back on the wire rack. Sprinkle with festive sprinkles immediately.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cookies:
- Butter: Using room temperature butter will make your batter smoother and easier to mix.
- Flavorings: Feel free to play with the extract flavors to suit your taste.
- Baking: Watch the cookies closely as they bake to ensure they remain soft. They should not brown but stay a pale color.
- Frosting: Allow the frosting to set completely before storing the cookies to prevent smudging.
Storage:
Once the frosting has set, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh for up to 5 days, making them perfect for making ahead of your Easter celebrations.
Italian Easter Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a vibrant addition to your holiday table and a delicious way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, these cookies are bound to bring joy and sweetness to your Easter festivities. Change up the dye colors, and you can adapt this versatile recipe for any occasion, ensuring these cookies will become a year-round favorite.