Italian Cookies 

Italian Cookies 

Soft, chewy, and bursting with classic flavors, these traditional Italian cookies are perfect for holiday baking, gift-giving, or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 tbsp whole milk
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• ½ tsp almond extract
• 2–3 tbsp whole milk (start with 2 tbsp and add more if needed for consistency)

For Garnish:

• Rainbow-colored nonpareil sprinkles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, milk, and almond extract until well combined.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Shape the Cookies
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the sheet.
4. Bake
   Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

1. Prepare the Glaze
   In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk to reach a pourable consistency.
2. Decorate
   Dip the tops of cooled cookies into the glaze or drizzle it over each cookie. Immediately sprinkle with rainbow nonpareils before the glaze sets.
3. Serve & Store
   Allow glaze to set completely before serving. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

These cookies are soft, chewy, and irresistibly festive—perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!