The tradition of Italian Easter Cookies dates back generations, bringing a touch of sweetness to family celebrations. These soft, delicate cookies are flavored with almond and vanilla, then dipped in a smooth glaze and topped with festive sprinkles. They are perfect for Easter, but their light texture and subtle sweetness make them a delightful treat any time of the year.
Whether served alongside a cup of espresso or as part of an Easter dessert spread, these cookies are a true testament to the simplicity and charm of Italian baking. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can recreate this classic recipe at home and share the love with friends and family.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- ¼ cup milk
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles for decoration
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into balls or logs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
- To prepare the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
- Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze and immediately sprinkle with colored sprinkles.
- Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 24 cookies
History & Origin of Italian Easter Cookies
Italian Easter Cookies, also known as Taralli Dolci di Pasqua, have been a beloved tradition in Italian households for generations. These cookies are typically made during the Easter season as part of family celebrations and festive gatherings. The recipe varies slightly across regions in Italy, with some versions incorporating citrus zest, anise, or even a splash of liqueur for added flavor.
These cookies symbolize renewal and joy, aligning with the essence of Easter, and are often shaped into twists, knots, or simple rounds. The glaze and colorful sprinkles represent the vibrant spirit of springtime. In Italy, they are commonly gifted to family and friends or served alongside espresso and other Easter delicacies.
What Makes Italian Easter Cookies Special?
- Soft & Buttery Texture – Unlike traditional crunchy biscotti, these cookies have a soft, cake-like consistency that melts in your mouth.
- Light Almond and Vanilla Flavor – A balanced combination of vanilla and almond extract gives these cookies their signature taste. Some recipes include lemon zest or anise for extra depth.
- Easy to Make & Customizable – These cookies require simple pantry ingredients and are perfect for home bakers. The glaze can be adjusted with different flavors, and the sprinkles can be changed to fit any occasion.
- Symbolism in Italian Culture – Easter cookies are a symbol of love, family, and tradition. Many Italian families pass down their unique recipe versions from one generation to the next.
Tips for Perfect Italian Easter Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Letting the butter, eggs, and milk come to room temperature ensures a smoother dough and even mixing.
- Do Not Overmix the Dough – Overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Mix until just combined for a light, airy texture.
- Shape with Slightly Floured Hands – The dough can be a bit sticky, so using lightly floured hands helps in shaping the cookies.
- Do Not Overbake – These cookies should be soft and lightly golden on the bottom. Baking for too long will make them dry.
- Let the Cookies Cool Before Glazing – Applying the glaze while the cookies are warm will cause it to run off. Wait until they are fully cooled for the best results.
- Customize the Flavors – You can add citrus zest (lemon or orange), a touch of cinnamon, or even substitute anise extract for the almond extract for a more traditional taste.
How to Store & Serve
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy them with coffee or tea as a light dessert.
- Pair with an Italian espresso or cappuccino for a true Italian experience.
- Serve as part of an Easter brunch spread alongside other traditional sweets like Pastiera Napoletana or Colomba di Pasqua.
- Package them in decorative boxes or bags to gift to family and friends during the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake them a few days in advance and store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze unglazed cookies and glaze them fresh when serving.
2. Can I substitute almond extract with something else?
Absolutely! If you don’t like almond extract, try using anise extract for a more traditional Italian flavor or simply increase the amount of vanilla extract.
3. Why did my cookies turn out dry?
Overbaking or adding too much flour can make the cookies dry. Make sure to measure the flour correctly (fluff, spoon, and level) and bake them just until the bottoms are lightly golden.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour. Just make sure to check if your baking powder is also gluten-free.
5. What other decorations can I use instead of sprinkles?
Instead of sprinkles, you can top the glaze with shredded coconut, chopped pistachios, or even drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies for a different look.
How to Make the Best Italian Easter Cookies
Key Ingredients and Their Role
- Flour: Provides structure and ensures a light, soft texture.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise, making them fluffy.
- Butter: Adds richness and enhances the cookie’s softness.
- Sugar: Gives the cookies a balanced sweetness.
- Eggs: Provide moisture, structure, and a tender crumb.
- Milk: Ensures a soft dough that is easy to shape.
- Vanilla & Almond Extract: Give the cookies a fragrant, bakery-style flavor.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cookies
✅ Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a smooth dough. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven textures.
✅ Mix Gently: Overmixing the dough can make the cookies tough. Stir just until combined.
✅ Chill the Dough (If Needed): If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 10–15 minutes before shaping.
✅ Bake Until Lightly Golden: The cookies should be soft with lightly golden bottoms. Overbaking will dry them out.
✅ Let the Cookies Cool Before Glazing: If the cookies are warm, the glaze will run off instead of setting properly.
✅ Experiment with Flavors: Try adding lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist, or swap almond extract for anise extract for a more traditional taste.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen (unglazed) for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy them with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Serve them as part of an Easter brunch or dessert spread.
- Gift them in decorative boxes for a homemade Easter present.
- Dip them in chocolate for an extra indulgent variation.
Conclusion
Italian Easter Cookies are more than just a dessert; they are a piece of tradition, a symbol of celebration, and a beloved part of Italian family gatherings. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or trying these cookies for the first time, their delicate texture, festive look, and delicious flavor make them a must-have for Easter.