Italian Easter Cookies Recipe
Italian Easter Cookies are soft, tender vanilla cookies with a hint of citrus, traditionally made during the Easter season. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are finished with a simple glaze and festive sprinkles, making them as pretty as they are delicious. Whether for Easter brunch or gifting, they’re a delightful addition to any spring dessert table.

Ingredients List
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
– Zest of 1 lemon or orange
– ¼ cup milk
For the glaze:
– 1½ cups powdered sugar
– 2–3 tablespoons milk
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– Sprinkles (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla, almond extract (if using), and citrus zest.
Step 5: Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms.
Step 6: Roll dough into 1-inch balls or twist into rings. Place on baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until set but not browned.
Step 7: Let cookies cool. Mix glaze ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Dip tops of cookies into glaze and add sprinkles if desired. Let set before serving.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings
Makes about 30 cookies
Nutritional Information (approx. per cookie)
Calories: 90
Carbs: 12g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 4g
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Can be frozen (unglazed) for up to 2 months. Glaze after thawing.
Pairings/Suggestions
Perfect with coffee, tea, or alongside other Easter treats like fruit salad or brunch casseroles.
Great as a gift or for Easter cookie platters.
Seasonal Relevance
A classic for Easter celebrations, especially in Italian households. Also lovely for spring-themed parties or baby showers.
Conclusion
Italian Easter Cookies bring sweet tradition to your table with their soft texture, bright flavor, and charming look. Whether you shape them into balls or rings, glaze and sprinkles make them irresistibly festive. These cookies are simple to make and sure to become a holiday favorite for years to come.
Italian Easter Cookies Recipe
Course: Uncategorized30
servings20
minutes10
minutes90
kcalItalian Easter Cookies are soft, buttery, and lightly sweetened cookies often adorned with colorful sprinkles or topped with a cherry. These festive treats are a beloved tradition during the Easter season, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon or orange
¼ cup milk
For the glaze:
1½ cups powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Sprinkles (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla, almond extract (if using), and citrus zest.
- Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls or twist into rings. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until set but not browned.
- Let cookies cool. Mix glaze ingredients until smooth. Dip tops of cookies into glaze and add sprinkles if desired. Let set before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Keeps fresh up to 1 week in airtight container
Try dipping in melted chocolate for a twist
Freezes well; thaw before serving
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these cookies without citrus zest?
Yes, but the zest adds brightness. You can omit it or substitute with a splash of citrus extract.
Q2: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can chill the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q3: Can I color the glaze?
Yes! Add a few drops of food coloring to the glaze for a festive touch.