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Italian Christmas Cookies, on a plate.

Traditional Italian Christmas Cookies (Soft Anise Cookies)


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5 from 1 review

  • Author: Laura
  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Description

This Italian Christmas Cookies Recipe is a Holiday must have! Soft, cake-like cookies flavored with anise and topped with a sweet glaze and festive sprinkles. Perfect for holiday baking!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cookies:

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp anise extract (or vanilla, almond, or lemon)
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tbsp milk

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp anise extract
  • Festive sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dough: Cream butter and sugar, add eggs and extract, then mix in dry ingredients and milk. Chill dough for 30 minutes.
  2. Shape and Bake: Roll dough into balls, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Cool completely.
  3. Decorate: Dip cookies in glaze, top with sprinkles, and let set.

Notes

Add a splash of lemon juice to the glaze for extra zing.

For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Store in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Calories: 90 kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 1g