What are traditional Italian Christmas cookies made of?

Traditional Italian Christmas cookies, often called "frollini" or almond cookies, feature simple ingredients like 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 2 large eggs, and 1 1/2 teaspoons pure almond extract for the dough. The glaze includes 2 cups powdered sugar, 3-4 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, and a pinch of kosher salt. These create a soft, cake-like texture with a nutty flavor perfect for holidays. Avoid imitation extracts for authentic taste. Measure flour by spooning into the cup and leveling with a knife to prevent dense cookies. This recipe yields about 4 dozen cookies, ideal for gifting or cookie swaps. Prep time is 20 minutes plus chilling, keeping them easy for home bakers. (112 words)

What gives Italian Christmas cookies their classic flavor?

The key flavoring in traditional Italian Christmas cookies is pure almond extract, used in both the dough (1 1/2 teaspoons) and glaze (1/2 teaspoon). It delivers a rich, nutty aroma reminiscent of Italian bakeries during the holidays. Imitation extract works but lacks depth—opt for pure for best results. If almond extract is unavailable, substitute with vanilla extract at the same amount, though it alters the traditional profile slightly. Add it after creaming butter, sugar, and salt, then beat in eggs. This ensures even distribution without curdling. Taste the dough before chilling to adjust if needed. These cookies pair well with espresso or vin santo, enhancing the almond notes for an authentic festive treat. (118 words)

How do you make dough for traditional Italian Christmas cookies?

To make the dough, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add 2 large eggs and 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract, beating until combined. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon baking powder evenly over the mixture, then add 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour. Beat on low until a soft dough forms—do not overmix to keep cookies tender. Scoop 1-tablespoon portions, roll into balls, and place on parchment-lined sheets. Refrigerate dough for 1 hour until scoopable but not rock-hard; longer chilling makes scooping difficult. This step prevents spreading during baking for perfect cracked tops. Dough can be prepped a day ahead for convenience. (124 words)

How long to bake and glaze Italian Christmas cookies?

Bake at 350°F: Scoop dough balls 1 1/2 inches apart on lined sheets, roll smooth, and bake 13-14 minutes, rotating pans halfway. Cookies are done when tops crack and bottoms are light golden—avoid overbaking for softness. Cool on sheets 5 minutes, then transfer to racks. For glaze, whisk 2 cups powdered sugar, 3-4 tablespoons milk (for pourable consistency), 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, and a pinch of kosher salt until smooth. Dip cooled cookie tops in glaze, let excess drip, and place glaze-side up on racks. Sprinkle nonpareils immediately, then let set 20 minutes. Glaze firms without cracking, adding shine and crunch. Yields glossy, festive cookies ready in under an hour total bake time. (128 words)

Can you freeze Italian Christmas cookie dough and how to store them?

Yes, freeze cookie dough balls for up to 2 months: Scoop, roll, freeze on sheets until solid (1-2 hours), then transfer to a sealed bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes—no thawing needed. This is great for holiday prep. Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; glaze keeps them soft. For longer storage, layer unglazed cookies with parchment in freezer bags up to 1 month, glaze after thawing. Avoid refrigerating as it dries them out. These hold shape well, making them ideal for shipping to family. One batch freezes easily, saving time during busy seasons without sacrificing texture or flavor. (116 words)

Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe for Holidays

Name: Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies
Prep time: PT-493120H3M42S
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: – 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature; – 1/2 cup granulated sugar; – 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; – 3 large eggs, at room temperature; – 2 teaspoons almond extract; – 2 teaspoons baking powder; – 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; – 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar; – 3 tablespoons milk, any fat percentage; – 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; – 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; – 2 tablespoons nonpareils, tiny colorful sugar balls, typically red and green for a festive look

Description

🎄 Indulge in soft, almond-infused Italian Christmas cookies glazed with festive sweetness, perfect for holiday traditions and joy.
🍪 Easy to make ahead, freeze, and share at cookie swaps or family gatherings for lasting festive cheer.

Ingredients

– 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

– 3 large eggs, at room temperature

– 2 teaspoons almond extract

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar

– 3 tablespoons milk, any fat percentage

– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

– 2 tablespoons nonpareils, tiny colorful sugar balls, typically red and green for a festive look

Notes

🌰 Use pure almond extract, not imitation, for the most authentic and flavorful cookies.
🧊 Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months and bake straight from frozen—no time adjustment needed.
📦 Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20-40 minutes
Chill: 1 hour
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (4 cookies)
Calories: 272
Sugar: 23.2g
Sodium: 174mg
Fat: 9.8g
Saturated Fat: 5.6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 41.7g
Fiber: 0.7g
Protein: 4.3g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: italian christmas cookies, traditional holiday treats, almond extract cookies, festive glazed cookies