Italian Christmas Cookies

Italian Christmas Cookies: A Delicious Tradition of Flavor and Festivity

The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats that bring warmth and joy to your home, and nothing says “Christmas” quite like Italian Christmas cookies. Known for their rich flavors, delicate textures, and festive shapes, these cookies have been passed down through generations in Italian-American households and in Italy itself. Whether you’re celebrating with family or baking for a holiday gathering, these cookies are a delightful way to share the flavors of Italy with your loved ones.

With their vibrant colors, sweet glazes, and variety of textures, Italian Christmas cookies have a unique charm. From the classic biscotti to the fun and chewy pignoli cookies made with pine nuts, each type tells a story of Italian heritage, family traditions, and holiday cheer. Whether you prefer soft and buttery cookies or crunchy, almond-flavored treats, there’s an Italian cookie to suit every taste.

In this article, we’ll explore the history behind Italian Christmas cookies and walk you through a few classic recipes to help make your holiday season even sweeter.

The Tradition of Italian Christmas Cookies

Italian Christmas cookies have deep roots in Italian culture, with many recipes originating from different regions of Italy. The tradition of baking cookies for Christmas is not just about the joy of eating, but also about spending time with loved ones, sharing stories, and creating memories.

In Italy, the Christmas season is filled with festive treats, and cookies are often enjoyed throughout the entire holiday period. From La Vigilia di Natale (Christmas Eve) to the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6th, families bake and share cookies in many forms. The use of almonds, citrus zest, anise, and hazelnuts in these cookies reflects the abundance of regional ingredients and the Italian love for natural, fresh flavors.

Classic Italian Christmas Cookies You Must Try

Here are some of the most beloved Italian Christmas cookies that have become staples in holiday celebrations:

1. Pignoli Cookies (Pine Nut Cookies)

Pignoli cookies are a classic Italian treat made with almond paste and covered with pine nuts. They are soft on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior, and the sweet almond flavor is balanced by the savory crunch of the pine nuts. These cookies are gluten-free, making them a great choice for guests with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond paste
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 egg whites
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp almond extract
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the almond paste and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the egg whites, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir until fully combined into a thick dough.
4. Roll small portions of the dough into balls, then roll them in the pine nuts to coat the outside.
5. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.

2. Biscotti (Italian Almond Cookies)

Biscotti, meaning “twice-baked,” are a quintessential Italian cookie that has become popular worldwide. These crunchy, almond-filled cookies are often dipped in coffee or wine, making them a delightful treat during the holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole almonds (or other nuts)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in the almonds (or other nuts of your choice).
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 12 inches long. Place the logs on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and let the logs cool for 10 minutes. Once cooled, slice the logs into 1-inch pieces.
7. Place the biscotti slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes to crisp them up.
8. Allow to cool completely before serving.

3. Anginetti (Italian Lemon Cookies)

Anginetti are soft, lemony cookies that are often glazed with a simple sugar glaze and topped with colorful sprinkles. These cookies are sweet, citrusy, and the perfect addition to any Christmas cookie platter.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp baking powder
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk

For the glaze:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp water
• Colored sprinkles (optional)

For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends