Description
These traditional Italian Easter Cookies are soft, buttery, and deliciously flavored with vanilla and almond extracts. Perfectly tender and topped with a sweet, colorful frosting and sprinkles, they make a festive treat for spring celebrations or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookies
- 1 cup sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened (one and a half sticks)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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 (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet pan with parchment paper or a baking mat to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together the sugar, softened butter, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes. Next, mix in the vanilla and almond extracts along with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour and mix until a smooth dough forms.
- Shape and Bake Cookies: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to measure out roughly one-inch balls of dough. Roll each portion between your hands to form smooth balls. Place them spaced about two inches apart on the prepared cookie sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies won’t brown much. Once baked, transfer them to a cooling rack and let cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Slowly add the powdered sugar, whisking until the frosting is smooth and free of lumps. Divide the frosting into separate bowls and mix in food coloring if desired to create colorful toppings.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are fully cooled, flip each cookie over and dip its top into the frosting. Place the frosted cookies back on the cooling rack and decorate with sprinkles if you like. Allow the frosting to set and dry completely before serving or stacking.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overbake; the cookies should remain pale and tender.
- Let cookies cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Customize frosting colors with food coloring for festive occasions.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Keywords: Italian Easter Cookies, almond extract cookies, frosted Italian cookies, spring cookies, festive cookies, holiday baking